Günthers catfish (Horabagrus brachysoma) — 5-6cm

Overview

The Horabagrus brachysoma, commonly known as Günther's Catfish or the Sun Catfish, is a striking golden river catfish endemic to rivers of the Western Ghats, India. Available for live fish delivery UK, this species grows large—up to 35 cm in captivity—and requires a spacious bottom-dwelling setup with robust filtration, meaty foods, and sturdy tankmates. Its semi-aggressive temperament and predatory instincts make it best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide a mature, well-structured aquarium. At Tropical Fish Co, we supply healthy juveniles that adapt well to aquarium life and reward attentive care with years of impressive, active behavior.

Appearance and Coloration

Horabagrus brachysoma displays a stunning golden-yellow base color with darker mottling and a prominent dark spot on the upper flank, earning it the nickname "eclipse catfish." The body is robust and slightly compressed, with a broad head, large eyes, and long sensitive barbels. The fins are semi-translucent with dark banding, and the caudal fin is deeply forked. Juveniles start with a paler coloration that intensifies to rich gold as they mature. Under subdued lighting, the golden hue becomes particularly vivid, and the dark spot creates a striking focal point. The armored appearance and bold coloration make this species a showpiece in any large aquarium.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

This species is endemic to fast-flowing rivers and streams of the Western Ghats in Kerala and Karnataka, India. The natural habitat features clear, well-oxygenated water with rocky substrate, submerged logs, and abundant crevices. Water conditions are typically warm (24–28 °C), neutral to slightly acidic, and highly oxygenated. Horabagrus brachysoma is primarily nocturnal, hiding among rocks and logs during the day and emerging at dusk to hunt for small fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates. During the monsoon season, these catfish move upstream to spawn. The natural environment is dimly lit with moderate to strong current and abundant hiding places.

Aquarium Setup and Décor

A 500-litre aquarium is the minimum for a single adult Horabagrus brachysoma. Use soft sand or smooth substrate, and provide plenty of caves, driftwood, and rock formations to create secure hiding places. Live or artificial plants can be used; robust species such as Anubias, Java fern, and Vallisneria are preferable. Subdued lighting is essential to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior. A secure lid is mandatory, as these catfish are strong swimmers and may jump. Ensure all décor is stable and free of sharp edges. Provide multiple hiding spots to reduce stress, especially during the daytime when the fish is resting.

Feeding and Nutrition

Horabagrus brachysoma is primarily carnivorous. Offer a varied diet of sinking carnivore pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, earthworms, shrimp, and other meaty foods. Occasional high-quality prepared foods are accepted, though live and frozen options are preferred. Feed once daily in the evening, as this species is primarily nocturnal. Ensure food reaches the substrate and is not consumed entirely by faster mid-water fish. This is a predatory fish, so any tankmate small enough to fit in its mouth is at risk. Avoid overfeeding, as uneaten food can degrade water quality.

Behaviour and Social Structure

Günther's Catfish is semi-aggressive and primarily nocturnal. It hides during the day and emerges at dusk to hunt. This species can be shy in a brightly lit aquarium but becomes confident and bold in a well-structured tank with subdued lighting and secure hiding places. It is a predatory fish and will consume any tankmate small enough to fit in its mouth. Males may display territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks, so a single specimen or a very large aquarium is recommended. Despite its predatory nature, it is not overly aggressive toward tankmates of similar size.

Compatible Tank Mates

Ideal companions include large, robust, non-aggressive fish of similar size such as large barbs (tinfoil, rosy), large danios (giant danio), rainbowfish (Boesemani, turquoise), and peaceful sturdy cichlids of similar size (severums, Geophagus). Avoid housing with small fish, shrimp and other small invertebrates, slow-moving long-finned fish, very aggressive territorial fish, or any tankmate small enough to fit in its mouth. Fast-moving, mid-water species that will not be harassed or outcompeted for food are best.

Breeding in the Aquarium

Captive breeding is uncommon and not well documented in the aquarium hobby. In nature it is a river-spawning species; successful breeding likely requires large mature fish, excellent water quality, seasonal conditioning with live foods, and a very large aquarium that can simulate monsoon flooding conditions. Sexual dimorphism is subtle; females may be slightly larger and plumper when carrying eggs. If breeding is attempted, provide multiple caves and monitor water parameters closely. Fry, if produced, require specialized care and high-protein micro-foods.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, every Günther's Catfish is quarantined, health-checked, and acclimated to UK water conditions before dispatch. We source our fish from reputable suppliers who prioritize ethical collection and sustainable practices. Our livestock arrives in insulated packaging with heat packs during colder months, ensuring safe transit. With decades of combined fishkeeping experience, our team is available to answer questions about care, compatibility, and tank setup. Whether you're building a large species aquarium or expanding an established collection, we're here to support your success. Order with confidence and enjoy premium freshwater fish delivered to your door.