Common Name: Firewood Catfish
Scientific Name: Sorubimichthys planiceps
Other Names: Flathead Shovelnose Catfish
The Firewood Catfish is a rare and massive predatory catfish species known for its elongated, torpedo-like body, broad flattened head, and distinctively large mouth adapted for ambushing prey. Its coloration is generally dark brown to gray with subtle mottled patterns that help it blend into its environment. Due to its impressive size and predatory nature, this species is best suited for experienced aquarists with exceptionally large aquariums or indoor ponds.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins, the Firewood Catfish is found in large, slow-moving rivers, deep channels, and floodplains with sandy or muddy substrates. It prefers areas with submerged logs, fallen trees, and strong currents where it can ambush prey. It is a nocturnal species, remaining hidden during the day and actively hunting at night.
Size and Lifespan:
This species can reach up to 60 inches (150 cm) in length and weigh over 100 pounds (45 kg) in the wild. In captivity, it typically grows to 36-48 inches (90-120 cm), depending on tank size and diet. With proper care, it can live for 15-20 years.
Diet and Behavior:
Firewood Catfish are obligate carnivores, preying on fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic animals in the wild. In captivity, their diet should include high-quality carnivore pellets or sticks, frozen or live foods such as whole fish (silversides, tilapia), shrimp, and earthworms. They are nocturnal ambush predators, often remaining motionless until prey comes within striking distance. Due to their massive size, they should only be housed with similarly large fish that will not be viewed as food.
Breeding and Reproduction:
There are no known successful captive breeding records for the Firewood Catfish. In the wild, they migrate during the rainy season to deeper waters for spawning. Captive breeding is highly unlikely due to their enormous size and specific environmental requirements.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 500 gallons is required for juveniles, while adults need a custom-built indoor pond or exceptionally large aquarium of at least 1,500+ gallons. Their ideal tank setup includes a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, large driftwood and caves for hiding, extremely strong filtration to manage their high bioload, moderate to strong water flow to mimic river currents, and dim lighting to accommodate their nocturnal nature.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Due to their massive size and predatory instincts, only large, robust fish should be housed with the Firewood Catfish. Suitable tank mates include Arowanas, Pacu, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish, Piraiba Catfish, Giant Gouramis, and Peacock Bass. Avoid any fish small enough to fit in their mouths, as they will be eaten.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. This species requires a massive tank or indoor pond, a high-protein diet, and a secure, well-filtered setup to accommodate its size and predatory behavior.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.8
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General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- The name "Firewood Catfish" comes from its large size and the fact that fishermen often mistake its motionless body for floating logs.
- It is a slow-growing species but eventually reaches massive proportions, requiring long-term planning for proper housing.
- They are best kept in large, species-specific predator tanks due to their potential size and territorial nature.
The Firewood Catfish is a giant predatory species that is not suited for the average home aquarium. However, for dedicated aquarists with the proper space and resources, it can be a fascinating and impressive centerpiece in a massive freshwater predator setup.
