Do your pictus catfish come out during the day?

**Canadian Fish** · 04-03-2012, 07:43 PM

I was debating getting some pictus catfish.

I was wondering if they are strictly nocturnal, or if they come out and are active during the day?

Also, can they be kept in a group of 3, or do they need a larger group to be happy?

Thanks!

**-Alex-** · 04-03-2012, 08:58 PM

Lol... Its Spuds from badmans!

Just wanted to say hello

!

If Kept in a large enough group they will defo be more active during the day. Are they for your 55gal?

**Canadian Fish** · 04-03-2012, 08:59 PM

Hey Spuds! Sounds like pictus get too big and are too predatory for my needs.

**-Alex-** · 04-03-2012, 09:09 PM

I have the perfect fish for you if this is for your 55gal!!!

Hoplo catfish, (Hoplosternum thoracatum)

Friendly, peaceful and very active!!! I kept 3 before and i loved em!!!

They were hand feeding after 1 day

**rmiller** · 04-03-2012, 09:09 PM

You know I was just thinking...this thread sounds familiar...oh wait I know that guy from badmans. I have debated about getting pictus for a 55 myself. I think they would be doable if their tankmates would put up with their shinanigans.

**Canadian Fish** · 04-03-2012, 09:12 PM

I'm actually looking for a bottom feeder for a 36" tank, so pictus are totally out of the question.

I already have Corys in a 20 and Zebra Loaches in the 55 so I want something different in the bottom of the 35. And preferably something that comes out during the day.

I had no idea how big the pictus got, or how aggressive they are.

**-Alex-** · 04-03-2012, 09:14 PM

Hoplo Catfish!!

**Canadian Fish** · 04-03-2012, 09:29 PM

I just did a quick read up on Hoplos. They seem to average around 6". Is a 36" 35 Gallon tank large enough for them? I thought they needed 48" 55 Gallon minimum.

**rmiller** · 04-03-2012, 09:40 PM

My first thought is either a pleco of some sort or a cory. The plecos are mostly nocternal though. Do you order fish online or buy local? That could make a huge difference.