Common Name: Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish
Scientific Name: Leiarius pictus
Other Names: Marbled Pim, Sailfin Pimelodid, Painted Catfish
The Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish is a strikingly patterned, large freshwater fish known for its marbled coloration, elongated body, and prominent sail-like dorsal fin. It is a popular species among aquarists with large tanks due to its beauty and active behavior.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish is native to the river systems of South America, including the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo basins. These catfish inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and areas with sandy or muddy substrates, often hiding among submerged logs and vegetation during the day.
Size and Lifespan:
In the wild, Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish can grow up to 24-28 inches (60-70 cm) in length. In captivity, they usually reach around 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) if provided with adequate space and care. With proper husbandry, their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years.
Diet and Behavior:
Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods in their natural habitat, including small fish, crustaceans, insects, and plant matter. In an aquarium, their diet should consist of high-quality sinking pellets, live or frozen foods such as shrimp, fish pieces, earthworms, and occasional plant-based foods like peas or algae wafers.
They are active and peaceful catfish but may eat smaller tank mates if given the opportunity. They are nocturnal by nature and spend much of the day hiding, becoming more active at night to forage for food.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish in captivity is rare and difficult due to their large size and specific environmental requirements. In the wild, they migrate to spawning grounds during the rainy season. Captive breeding would require a very large tank or pond, a seasonal water temperature and flow simulation, and the right conditions for the female to deposit eggs.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their large size and active swimming habits, Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish require a spacious aquarium of at least 300 gallons for adult specimens. The tank should have a sandy or smooth gravel substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Include plenty of hiding spots created with driftwood, caves, or large rocks to mimic their natural habitat. Strong filtration is essential to manage their heavy bioload, along with regular water changes to maintain pristine water quality.
Water movement should mimic their natural environment, and moderate lighting is preferred as they are sensitive to bright light.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish are generally peaceful and can be housed with other large, robust fish that share similar water parameters. Suitable tank mates include large cichlids, arowanas, pacus, and other similar-sized catfish. Avoid keeping them with small fish, as these may be mistaken for food.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. The Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish is best suited for experienced aquarists due to its large size, significant space requirements, and the need for consistent water quality maintenance.
Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 4-15 dGH
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-8 dKH
• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm
Additional Information:
• The Marbled Sailfin Pim Catfish’s intricate marbled pattern and large sail-like dorsal fin make it a visually stunning centerpiece for large aquariums.
• They are known for their fast growth rate, so adequate space must be provided early on.
• Fun fact: These catfish are excellent scavengers and help keep the bottom of the aquarium clean, though they should not rely solely on leftover food for sustenance.
• Secure tank lids are essential, as they can be strong and may attempt to jump if startled.
