Two-colored Banjo Catfish – Bunocephalus coracoideus

The Two-Tone Banjo Catfish (Bunocephalus coracoideus), also known simply as the Banjo Catfish, is an extraordinary bottom-dweller from South America. With its flat, banjo-shaped body and two-tone camouflage pattern, it is one of the most interesting catfish species. Its inconspicuous behavior and ability to perfectly hide itself in the substrate make it a fascinating observation fish for experienced aquarists.

In its native habitat, the slow-flowing waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins, Bunocephalus coracoideus lives buried in sand or among leaves. There it quietly waits for small prey. Despite its predatory feeding habits, it is peaceful towards fish of similar size and can be successfully kept in community aquariums.

🌿 Characteristics & Care:
🐟 Fish Size: M (approx. 7 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon, Orinoco basin) – Wild caught
🌡️ Temperature: 23–28 °C
💧 pH value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Peaceful, calm, bottom-oriented
🏞️ Aquarium: from 80 l with sand substrate, leaf litter, roots and hiding places

🍽️ Feeding:
The Banjo Catfish prefers animal food such as frozen and live food (e.g., mosquito larvae, artemia, krill). After acclimatization, it will also accept sinking granules or tablets. Since it is nocturnal, feeding should preferably be done in the evening.

💡 Tip:
Bunocephalus coracoideus loves soft sand substrate, in which it partially burrows. Dimmed lighting and natural leaf litter promote its natural behavior. Ideal for calm aquariums without hectic tank mates.

👉 Conclusion:
The Two-Tone Banjo Catfish (Bunocephalus coracoideus) is a calm, peaceful master of camouflage – perfect for lovers of unusual bottom-dwellers and natural aquariums.