Basics required are as follows:
Minimum aquarium size 24" for 3-4 specimens depending upon available space taken up by other species.
These catfish really do prefer to shoal so ideally you should purchase at least four fish but preferably six.
If you do not wish to purchase six of the same species (although this is my preferred choice) then endeavour to purchase three each of two species.
Always study the catfish prior to purchase to ensure that they are both fit and well, if in doubt leave alone and return a few days later to see if the fish are still for sale.
Provide plenty of hiding places, but try to position any potential hiding places so that you can still observe the fish..thus a bit of careful planning is required.
A good quality substrate. I prefer to use aquarium sand as I think that it is more akin to the substrate found in their natural habitats. The brand I use is BD Aquarium Sand which is excellent. If you prefer to use gravel then please ensure that it is smooth and rounded so that the catfish do not damage themselves.
Provide good quality filtration in the form of internal (or external if on a large system) power filtration with possibly a back-up air driven filter such as a box filter of sponge filter, but do note that the latter are best used as back-up.
Try to add aquatic plants preferably attached to bogwood or rocks so that the fish do not disturb the roots.
Dim lighting is preferable if you wish to see these fish during the day.
Mixed and varied diet including catfish pellets, granular foods, frozen bloodworm, chopped mussel and earthworms to name but a few.
Ensure that regular partial water changes are undertaken on a weekly/fortnightly basis. I would suggest a regime of 25% at a time.
Regularly test the water especially if it is a new set-up.
If it is a newly aquired aquarium, PLEASE remember to add new fish gradually and do not overstock.
New purchases should always be quarantined for a minimum of two weeks before adding to the main aquarium. I've made these mistakes when I first started fishkeeping (too many years ago to remember now!), so please do not risk losing your stock for the sake of not having a quarantine tank!
Enjoy your fish and follow the basics and you should not have any problems.
Lecture over
Dorad
