The Gulper Catfish (Asterophysus batrachus) is a freshwater predator from the Amazon Basin with a massive, expandable mouth that allows it to swallow prey up to its own size. It has a dark, often solid black, color with a slow-moving, solitary, and nocturnal nature.
Physical characteristics
Mouth and stomach: It is distinguished by its enormous mouth and a highly expandable stomach, which allows it to consume prey much larger than its head.
Body: The body is soft and tapers to a long tail.
Coloration: The fish is typically dark, often a solid black.
Size: It can grow to about 9.8 inches (25 cm) in standard length, reaching around 11.2 inches (28.5 cm) in total length.
Behavior and diet
Predatory behavior: It is a nocturnal ambush predator that is best kept alone or with tankmates too large to be eaten. It typically waits in a corner or cave for prey to pass by, and its hunting method involves quickly turning sideways to bite the target.
Diet: The diet is carnivorous and includes meaty foods like frozen fish, shrimp, and carnivore pellets, though feeding should be controlled to prevent obesity.
Habitat and care
Aquarium needs: It needs a large aquarium of at least 100 gallons for adults, with a preference for a long footprint rather than just volume.
Substrate and decor: A soft, sandy substrate is recommended, along with plenty of driftwood and other furnishings to create hiding places and mimic its natural, dimly lit river habitat.
Water quality: It is sensitive to poor water conditions, so excellent filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain high water quality and oxygen levels.
Lighting: Subdued or dim lighting is preferred to match its natural environment.
The Gulper Catfish (Asterophysus batrachus) is a freshwater predator from the Amazon Basin with a massive, expandable mouth that allows it to swallow prey up to its own size. It has a dark, often solid black, color with a slow-moving, solitary, and nocturnal nature.
Physical characteristics
Mouth and stomach: It is distinguished by its enormous mouth and a highly expandable stomach, which allows it to consume prey much larger than its head.
Body: The body is soft and tapers to a long tail.
Coloration: The fish is typically dark, often a solid black.
Size: It can grow to about 9.8 inches (25 cm) in standard length, reaching around 11.2 inches (28.5 cm) in total length.
Behavior and diet
Predatory behavior: It is a nocturnal ambush predator that is best kept alone or with tankmates too large to be eaten. It typically waits in a corner or cave for prey to pass by, and its hunting method involves quickly turning sideways to bite the target.
Diet: The diet is carnivorous and includes meaty foods like frozen fish, shrimp, and carnivore pellets, though feeding should be controlled to prevent obesity.
Habitat and care
Aquarium needs: It needs a large aquarium of at least 100 gallons for adults, with a preference for a long footprint rather than just volume.
Substrate and decor: A soft, sandy substrate is recommended, along with plenty of driftwood and other furnishings to create hiding places and mimic its natural, dimly lit river habitat.
Water quality: It is sensitive to poor water conditions, so excellent filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain high water quality and oxygen levels.
Lighting: Subdued or dim lighting is preferred to match its natural environment.
