This is a very rare fish. Three to choose from.

Photo of actual fish.

Max Size: 30-35cm Tank: 48 inches minimum for young Strata: Lower to middle PH: 6.8 to 8.0 Hardness: Medium hard to hard, 8-30 dH
Temperature:25-27°C

This fish enjoys large open areas to swim, and unlike most catfish doesn't really need any caves, rock, or wood to hide under. Juivenille's, however, can be quite shy if not provided with at least minimal plant cover.

Tankmates for the columbian have to be able to handle the salinity and water parameters and must be large enough not to be considered prey. Large mollies are a good choice. The columbian is a schooling fish and should be kept with at least 3 of its own kind.

As for a diet, the columbian is a great example of an omnivore. It will readily accept regular flake food but should also eat catfish pellets and fozen bloodworms for an occasional treat.

Breeding the columbian is extremely difficult and has never been proven to be sucessful in captivity. The female will lay a few large eggs which are then incubated in the mouth of the male.