Honeycomb Catfish

Scientific Name(s): Centromochlus perugiae, Tatia perugiae, Tatia reticularis

Common Name(s): Honeycomb Tatia, Oil woodcatfish

Family: Auchenipteridae

Species Type: South American Catfish

Maximum Size: 3 inches

Life Span: 5 years

Natural Habitat: South American rivers.

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

Tank Region: Bottom but goes all over at night.

Possible Tank Mates: Community fish.

Description: Though a bottom dwelling species, come dusk, they will traverse all strata of the water column--for such a non aerodynamic (or aquadynamic, if you will) body structure, they are surprisingly strong swimmers. When the tank lights go out, these fish seemingly spring to life. During daylight hours, it is possible to handle, and even remove individuals from the water without much resistance.


This is a very good aquarium fish with a nice distinctive pattern and contrasting markings. It's also hardy and energetic, does not hide like some catfishes do, and grows to be about 2.5" to 3" long, which is a very nice size for most aquariums. These are wild fish from the upper Amazon Rainforest in Columbia.