Fish Database: Pangassius - Pangasius hypophthalmus
Aquarium requirements
Aquarium suitability: 1/5
Sociability rating: 5/10
Area of tank: All
Aquarium water conditions: 6-8.5, vs,s,m,h,vh
Temperature: 22 - 26C
Feeding: Frozen, live, pellets
Minimum tank size: 300cm
Min / Max number in tank: Min 3
Fish fact file
Family: Pangasiidae (Shark catfishes)
Synonyms: Pangasius sutchi
Other common names: Shark Catfish, Sutchi Catfish, Mekong Catfish
Origin: Thailand
Natural habitat: Large rivers, flooded areas. Migratory
Size: 30cm
Behavior: Active, peaceful, predatory
Breeding:
Natural water conditions: pH 6.5-7.5, very soft to very hard
Sexing:
Pangassius
Fish code No.0304
Unfortunately, Pangassius are still regularly available in many aquatic stores although they are highly unsuitable for home aquariums. The fish naturally grows up to 130cm, although due to inadequate aquarium conditions, usually reaches around 30cm. Pangassius are incredibly nervous, fleeing at the slightest sudden movement, vibration, or change in light, often hitting the glass and resulting in damage to the fish. These fish can only be kept in huge aquariums (e.g. public aquariums) or tropical ponds and should never be kept in home aquariums. Do not purchase these fish and if you see a store selling them, Think Fish encourages you to print out and show them this page in order to point out their mistake and/or lack of responsibility to fishkeeping. If you already have Pangassius you have a duty and responsibility to care for them properly. If you do not have the means to care for them and were not informed of their needs during purchase, you should arrange to take them back to the store.
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