Wood Catfish (Tatia galaxias) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 73-80°F. A small, spotted, nocturnal catfish that hides in wood and caves by day. It is easy once settled in a dim tank with plenty of cover, and it should not be kept with very tiny fish it could swallow.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Tatia galaxias |
|---|---|
| Family | Auchenipteridae |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America |
| Adult size | 4-5 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 73-80°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, shy, mostly nocturnal |
| Social behavior | Groups of 3+ |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp |
| Typical lifespan | 5-8 years |
Quick tips
- Provide wood, caves and dim areas to hide in.
- Feed after lights out or sink food near hiding places.
- Keep a group so they feel secure.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi