Do Chameleon Whiptail Catfish really change colour?

Yes. They can alter their colour pattern to match the substrate and surroundings, similar to a chameleon. One of the most fascinating freshwater fish abilities.

Why are Chameleon Whiptail Catfish so expensive?

They are extremely rare in the aquarium trade, wild-caught from remote Amazonian rivers. Their unique colour-changing ability makes them highly sought after by collectors.

What substrate do they need?

Fine sand is mandatory. Coarse gravel damages their flat underside and prevents their natural camouflage behaviour.

How big do Chameleon Whiptail Catfish grow?

Adults reach approximately 20 cm. Provide at least 150 litres with plenty of open floor space.

Pseudohemiodon apithanos

Chameleon Whiptail Catfish (Pseudohemiodon Apithanos) - Rare Colour-Changing South American Catfish

Name: Chameleon Whiptail Catfish (Pseudohemiodon Apithanos) - Rare Colour-Changing South American Catfish
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: KD22
Price: 192.99 GBP
Availability: PreOrder

Moderate Care

Peaceful

£192.99In Stock

The Chameleon Whiptail Catfish (Pseudohemiodon apithanos) is a rare and fascinating catfish that changes colour to match its surroundings. With its flat body and mesmerising camouflage ability, this peaceful bottom dweller is a prized collector’s species from the upper Amazon basin.

Chameleon WhiptailColour Changing FishLoricariidaePseudohemiodon ApithanosRare Catfishsite:tropical-fish-coSouth American Catfish

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Pseudohemiodon apithanos

Adult Size

20 cm

Lifespan

10 years

Care Level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Temperature

24–28°C

pH Range

6–7.5

Hardness

2–12 dGH

Minimum Tank

150L

Diet

Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, algae wafers

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

24–28°C

24°CIdeal Range28°C

pH Level

6–7.5

6Ideal Range7.5

Water Hardness

2–12 dGH

2 dGHIdeal Range12 dGH

The Chameleon Whiptail Catfish (Pseudohemiodon apithanos) is a rare colour-changing catfish from the upper Amazon basin. One of the most fascinating freshwater fish available, it can alter its colour pattern to blend with its surroundings — a true aquatic chameleon.

Care at a Glance

Parameter	Value
Scientific Name	Pseudohemiodon apithanos
Family	Loricariidae
Origin	South America (Ecuador, Peru)
Care Level	Moderate
Temperament	Peaceful
Adult Size	20 cm
Minimum Tank	150 litres
Temperature	24 – 28 °C
pH	6.0 – 7.5
Hardness	2 – 12 dGH
Diet	Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, algae wafers
Lifespan	Up to 10 years

Origin & Natural Habitat

Pseudohemiodon apithanos is found in the upper Amazon basin of Peru and Ecuador, inhabiting rivers including the Napo, Putumayo, and Marañón. It dwells on sandy riverbeds where its camouflage ability helps it avoid predators.

Tank Setup

Provide at least 150 litres with fine sand substrate — essential for this species. Maintain 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, hardness 2 to 12 dGH. Clean, well-oxygenated water with moderate flow is critical. Include flat stones and driftwood.

Feeding Guide

Omnivorous; feed sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables. Benefits from a varied diet. Feed in the evening as this species is most active at night.

Compatible Tank Mates

Peaceful with all community fish. Excellent with Marbled Whiptail Catfish, Whiptail Catfish, Chocolate Whiptail Catfish, tetras, Corydoras, and peaceful community fish. Avoid aggressive bottom dwellers and large cichlids.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co?

Our Chameleon Whiptail Catfish are rare, premium specimens. Live arrival guaranteed with UK delivery.

Licensed Courier

Moved by UK carriers licensed to handle live animals

Trained Packing

Hand-packed with oxygen bags, poly box, heat pack

Live Arrival Guarantee

Replacement or refund — just tell us the same day

Pay Later Available

Klarna & PayPal Pay in 3 at checkout

How your fish gets to you

Dispatched Tuesday, delivered Wednesday — every order tracked and insured.

Dispatched on Tuesdays by a UK courier legally licensed to carry live animals. You’ll get a tracking number on dispatch morning and live updates through the afternoon.
Hand-packed in an insulated poly box with oxygen bags and (Oct–Apr) 40-hour heat packs. £20 flat rate covers any number of fish.
Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Tell us the same day your fish arrive with a short unboxing video — replacement or refund, no arguments. Why we need a video
You need to be home.Live fish cannot be left on doorsteps or with neighbours — it kills them. Please only order for days when someone will be in to sign.

Read the full delivery & guarantee story