Rip Saw Catfish
The Oxydoras niger (Ripsaw Catfish) is a peaceful giant that is easy to please but difficult to house. Often called "gentle giants," they are armored scavengers that spend their time sifting through the substrate.The Essentials
- Tank Size: This is the biggest hurdle. While they grow slowly, they eventually reach over 3 feet in length. Adults require a minimum of 300–500 gallons, though a custom indoor pond is often the best long-term home.
- Substrate: Use soft sand. They "filter feed" by taking mouthfuls of substrate and sifting out micro-organisms; coarse gravel can damage their barbels and gills.
- Diet: They are omnivorous scavengers. Feed a variety of sinking pellets, earthworms, thawed shrimp, and blanched vegetables (like zucchini). Since they are nocturnal, it’s best to feed them just before the lights go out.
- Water Quality: They are heavy waste producers. You’ll need heavy-duty filtration (sumps are preferred) and consistent weekly water changes to keep nitrates low.
- Temperament: Extremely peaceful. They can live with anything they can't fit in their mouths, including large Cichlids, Arowanas, and other peaceful catfish.
Pro-TipBe careful when handling them or using nets. The "saw" plates along their sides and their pectoral spines are incredibly sharp and can easily snag on mesh or cut your hands.