Two-colored frying pan catfish – Bunocephalus coracoideus | Camouflage artist & peaceful bottom dweller

The two-colored banjo catfish ( Bunocephalus coracoideus ), also known as the banjo catfish, is an extraordinary bottom dweller from South America. With its flat, banjo-like body and two-toned camouflage pattern, it is one of the most interesting catfish species. Its inconspicuous behavior and ability to perfectly hide in the substrate make it a fascinating fish to observe for experienced aquarists.

In its native habitat, the slow-flowing waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins, Bunocephalus coracoideus lives buried in the sand or among leaves. There it waits patiently for small prey. Despite its predatory feeding behavior, it is peaceful towards fish of similar size and can be kept successfully in community aquariums.

🌿 Characteristics & Attitude:
🐟 Fish size: M (approx. 7 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon and Orinoco basins) – Wild caught
🌡️ Temperature: 23-28°C
💧 pH value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Peaceful, calm, ground-oriented
🏞️ Aquarium: from 80 liters with sandy bottom, leaf layer, roots and hiding places

🍽️ Feeding:
The banjo catfish prefers animal-based foods such as frozen and live foods (e.g., mosquito larvae, brine shrimp, krill). After an acclimation period, it will also accept sinking granules or tablets. Since it is nocturnal, feeding should preferably take place in the evening.

💡 Tip:
Bunocephalus coracoideus prefers soft sandy substrate, in which it partially burrows. Subdued lighting and natural substrate cover with leaves encourage its natural behavior. Ideal for calm aquariums without other active fish.

👉 Conclusion:
The two-colored banjo catfish ( Bunocephalus coracoideus ) is a calm, peaceful master of camouflage – perfect for lovers of extraordinary bottom dwellers and natural aquariums.