Columbian Catfish

[rykitten]

Hi everyone!

First off, let me say that I know how big these fellas get.

Here's the deal . . .

Yesterday morning both of the catfish were hanging out on the bottom of the tank in one specific corner. They weren't swimming around the tank, just swimming in place.

Again today, they are both hanging on the bottom, swimming in place.

What I find so strange about this is they can't leave each other alone. Usually the larger cat chases the little one around. The poor little guy can't get away from him. But for the last 2 days they have been practically glued together.

I don't know what's going on. Anybody have an idea? I don't know how to tell the sexes so if anyone knows about that I'd appreciate it. Here are a few pics:

 

[drobbins27]

Sounds like mating...err....breeding to me

 

[Ricey]

mine do this too. they always stick together. hehe

 

[Clare]

These cats particualrly when young,should be kept in small shoals.5 or more,sticking together is natural for these fish. Eventually their behaviour becomes strange,that means that they are ready to turn to brackish water which would be essential for them to mate. This is a MUST as they get older.

 

[Fawke]

When you say "this is a must", do you mean a must to breed or to live?

The reason i ask is, i have heard everybody say that they are brackish, and therefore when older need brackish water.
What i have failed to interpret - is this essential to "thrive" or is it live or die.

My friend had a pair of these that grew to around 8" in a tank with a Panceas Shark and a Pictus. They never turned brackish or behaved like they needed to. They were fantastic.
Also a pet shop said to me they would grow better and would "thrive" in Brackish, but is not essential for them to live.

Sorry to add a sub-question to your thread rykitten, dont want to take away the importance of your question, just thought it relevant to clear this up.

Thanks

 

[rykitten]

Fawke, no problem, ask away!