Spotted Raphael Talking Catfish (Agamyxis sp.)
22–27°C · pH 6–8
£11.99
A peaceful, nocturnal armored catfish with striking spines and a hardy nature, ideal for a calm South American community tank. Moderate care, peaceful. 22-28C, pH 6.0-7.5.
Care at a Glance
Scientific Name
Acanthodoras cataphractus
Max Adult Size
up to 11 cm
Lifespan
10 years
Care Level
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Temperature
22–28°C
pH Range
6–7.5
Hardness
2–15 dGH
Minimum Tank
100L
Diet
Omnivore
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size above for the actual shipping size. Product-photo provenance and any image-specific limitations are stated on the listing.
Water Parameters
Temperature
22–28°C
22°CIdeal28°C
pH Level
6–7.5
6Ideal7.5
Water Hardness
2–15 dGH
2 dGHIdeal15 dGH
Acanthodoras cataphractus
Painted Talking Catfish (Acanthodoras cataphractus)
Moderate Care
Peaceful
£7.99Sold Out
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Live arrival guaranteed. If they don’t arrive healthy, email us a short unboxing video the same day for a replacement or refund. Packed in oxygenated bags with insulation and heat packs when needed.
£19.95 tracked delivery — half price (£9.98) from £100.00, free from £200.00. One delivery charge however many fish you add — everything travels together with a licensed live-animal courier.
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A peaceful, nocturnal armored catfish with striking spines and a hardy nature, ideal for a calm South American community tank. Moderate care, peaceful. 22-28C, pH 6.0-7.5.
Care at a Glance
Scientific Name
Acanthodoras cataphractus
Max Adult Size
up to 11 cm
Lifespan
10 years
Care Level
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Temperature
22–28°C
pH Range
6–7.5
Hardness
2–15 dGH
Minimum Tank
100L
Diet
Omnivore
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size above for the actual shipping size. Product-photo provenance and any image-specific limitations are stated on the listing.
Water Parameters
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
Temperature
22–28°C
22°CIdeal28°C
pH Level
6–7.5
6Ideal7.5
Water Hardness
2–15 dGH
2 dGHIdeal15 dGH
Overview
Painted Talking Catfish, Acanthodoras cataphractus, is a peaceful armoured doradid catfish from South America. It is a nocturnal bottom-dweller that spends much of the day tucked under wood, roots or caves, then becomes more active after dusk when food is offered.
The common name comes from its ability to make audible sounds with the pectoral-fin mechanism. It is a characterful species, but it should be handled with care because the pectoral and dorsal spines can catch in nets. Use a container rather than chasing or lifting it in mesh.
Quick facts
- Scientific name: Acanthodoras cataphractus
- Origin: Amazon and Guiana Shield drainages in South America
- Adult size: about 11-12 cm standard length
- Care level: moderate
- Temperament: peaceful, nocturnal
- Minimum aquarium: 120 litres, larger for groups
- Temperature: 22-26°C
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Diet: omnivore / sinking meaty and prepared foods
Care notes
Use fine sand or smooth substrate, subdued lighting and several hiding places. Driftwood, pipes, caves and broad plant cover help the fish settle and show normal behaviour. It is peaceful with similarly sized community fish, but very small fry or tiny shrimp may be eaten if encountered after dark.
Good tank mates include medium tetras, peaceful cichlids, larger Corydoras, calm gouramis and other non-aggressive species that enjoy similar water. Avoid rough cichlids, fin-nippers and territorial bottom dwellers that may block access to shelter.
Feeding
Feed after lights dim using sinking omnivore pellets, wafers, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, mysis and finely chopped seafood. It will scavenge, but it should not be left to survive on leftovers. Remove uneaten food and keep the substrate clean.
Delivery and guarantee
We pack armoured catfish with careful bagging and insulated livestock packaging. Orders travel with a licensed live-animal courier and eligible livestock orders are covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee when delivery and acclimation instructions are followed.
FAQ
Why is it called a talking catfish?
It can produce audible sounds by moving the pectoral-fin mechanism, especially when disturbed.
Is it aggressive?
No. It is generally peaceful, but it is nocturnal and should be kept with fish too large to be mistaken for food.
Can I net it?
A container is safer. The spines can snag in nets and injure the fish or the keeper.
Customer Reviews
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What customers say about ordering from us
4.6 on Google Maps, rated 4.6 out of 5 (opens in a new tab)4.4 · 91 shop reviews read them, rated 4.4 out of 5
- 4 out of 5Verified buyer
I have a small group of long finned mountain minnows. So was delighted to be able to order ten of this variety to increase the genetics in my tank . The ones I recieved are healthy but it’s to early to give a verdict on wether they are of a long finned type since they are small currently.
Gordon Walker · 23 Sept 2026
- 5 out of 5Verified buyer
100% success travel and "installation". Pleased with quality of purchase. The Siamese fighter a bit "shy" so have not yet seen him at his best yet but looking good. Happy customer. GG
George E Garratt · 21 Sept 2026
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