Common Name: Flat-Spined Torrent Catfish
Scientific Name: Glyptothorax platypogon
Other Names: Glyptothorax Catfish
The Flat-Spined Torrent Catfish is a small, rheophilic species known for its specialized adaptations to fast-moving waters. It has a flattened body, a broad head, and an adhesive thoracic disk that allows it to grip onto rocks and substrates in strong currents. Its coloration is typically a mix of earthy browns and grays, helping it blend into riverbeds. This species is peaceful, making it an interesting addition to well-oxygenated, river-style aquariums.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to fast-flowing rivers and streams in South and Southeast Asia, Glyptothorax platypogon thrives in well-oxygenated environments with rocky substrates. These habitats have clear water, strong currents, and an abundance of small invertebrates and biofilm, which form a significant part of their diet. They are most commonly found clinging to rocks and submerged logs.
Size and Lifespan:
This species typically grows to about 4-5 inches (10-12 cm). With proper care, it can live for 5-7 years.
Diet and Behavior:
The Flat-Spined Torrent Catfish is an omnivore, feeding on insect larvae, small crustaceans, and biofilm in the wild. In captivity, they should be provided with high-quality sinking pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter like algae wafers. They are peaceful and social, preferring to be kept in small groups.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding in captivity is extremely rare due to their preference for high-flow environments. In the wild, they likely spawn in fast-moving waters during seasonal changes, with eggs being deposited in crevices or among rocks. There are currently no documented successful breeding attempts in home aquariums.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 40 gallons is recommended for a small group. Their ideal tank setup includes a smooth gravel or fine sand substrate, plenty of rocks and driftwood for hiding spots, strong filtration to maintain water clarity and high oxygenation, a powerhead or wavemaker to simulate river currents, and dim to moderate lighting with shaded areas.
Ideal Tank Mates:
The Flat-Spined Torrent Catfish is peaceful and does well with other riverine species. Suitable tank mates include small loaches (Botia and Sewellia species), hillstream loaches, danios, barbs, and smaller, peaceful catfish. Avoid slow-moving or delicate species that may struggle in high-flow environments.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. They require a well-oxygenated tank with strong currents and stable water parameters.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 68-78°F (20-26°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 6-12 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:
- Their adhesive thoracic disk allows them to cling to rocks, preventing them from being swept away in fast-moving water.
- They require well-oxygenated water and cannot tolerate stagnant conditions.
- Keeping them in groups encourages natural behaviors and reduces stress.
The Flat-Spined Torrent Catfish is a fascinating species that thrives in well-maintained, high-flow setups. With proper care, they make an excellent addition to river-themed aquariums.
