Got this guy but can't ID him

[Djthomas]

Hey guys and gals,
Can anyone out there help me with this little guy. I was told he was a Shovelnose, but I don't think he really is.

[Silurus]

It's a

Sperata

, but I can't tell which species.

[Djthomas]

Thank you very much! I was able to find him with the info you gave me. He is a Sperata acicularis ! Thanks again

[Bijn]

Thank you very much! I was able to find him with the info you gave me. He is a Sperata acicularis ! Thanks again

this is based on what exactly?

Why isn't it a

Sperata aor

I'm not saying you're wrong, I just curious about what made you decide it's Sperata acicularis.

[Richard B]

Whatever species of Sperata, i hope you have a ridiculously gigantic tank or pond for this species - ideally it needs something about 20 foot by 10 foot minimum to keep as an adult, preferably with some noticeable flow. Not really a species for the aquatic trade...

[Djthomas]

this is based on what exactly?

Why isn't it a

Sperata aor

I'm not saying you're wrong, I just curious about what made you decide it's Sperata acicularis.

I believe it is a Sperata acicularis due to its coloring. My little guy looks just like the pics on line. As for how big it will grow... Well lets just say I was givin some bad info for this one. I was told he was one of the smaller shovelmouths, but at 71", that ain't small! I guess this is one fish that I will have to look into other houseing for when he gets a bit bigger. For now I am safe, he is only around 2 inches. Very melow!

[Silurus]

You really shouldn't use color to distinguish these things. Knowing where the fish came from would've been more useful in identifying them.