Common name/s: African Shovelnose, Dotted Catfish

Scientific name: According to Fishbase the valid name is now Parauchenoglanis loennbergi, but Planet Catfish is still listing Parauchenoglanis guttatus.

Family:Bagridae

Origin: Africa

Maximum size: Reported 10"- but since not many people keep them I'd dispute this and put it nearer 7/8" TL. Mine is currently about 7", and hasn't grown in a while, so we shall see.

Care: Minimum tank size around 36"x12"x12". Care is identical to the 'normal' dwarf giraffes. Can get terratorial, especially with similar species, so ensure there are plenty of hiding spots (such as mopani or large rocks).

Feeding: Omnivorous, supply with high protein food for best growth. Tends to 'scavenge' after lights out so ensure there's enough food.

Sexing and breeding: Unknown. Males are probably larger, probably spawn under rocks or in caves.

Other: Can be differentiated from the normal Dwarf Giraffe best by the dorsal- P. Guttatus has a dorsal with large brown spots, on dwarf giraffes these are much smaller or absent. Colouring is also different but these catfish change markings to suit, so that's not the best method.

'Stressed' colouration


With a dwarf giraffe


*note- under construction*

This post has been edited by OohFeeshy: Dec 17 2007, 12:03 PM