Banjo Catfish (Two Colour)

The two-colored banjo catfish (Bunocephalus coracoideus) is a hardy, peaceful, and nocturnal species that primarily hides in the substrate during the day.

Key Care Guidelines:

• Substrate: Provide a fine sand substrate.
• Lighting: Use dim lighting.
• Diet: Offer a meaty diet fed after lights out.

Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size:
  A minimum of approximately 80 litres is recommended, focusing on tank footprint rather than height.

• Substrate:
  A fine, soft sand substrate is essential, as they spend most of their time completely buried. Coarse gravel can injure their skin and barbels.

• Decor:
  Provide ample hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and dried leaf litter (such as Indian almond leaves) to mimic their natural, debris-filled habitat.

• Lighting:
  Dim or subdued lighting is mandatory. Bright light is stressful; use floating plants or broad-leaved plants to create shade. Optional blue moon lighting can be used to observe their nighttime activity.

• Filtration/Flow:
  Standard biological and mechanical filtration is needed, but ensure a gentle water flow near the substrate, as they dislike strong currents.

• Water Parameters:
  They are adaptable but prefer consistent, stable, soft, and slightly acidic freshwater conditions.

  • Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F).
  • pH: 6.0–7.5.
  • Hardness: 3–12 dGH (very soft to medium).