Pictus Catfish: Tank Size, Tank Mates & How Many to Keep

What size tank do pictus catfish need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 3. The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Pimelodus pictus.

How many pictus catfish in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if pictus catfish are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Tank	How many pictus catfish
5 gallon	Too small
10 gallon	Too small
20 gallon long	Too small
29 gallon	Too small
40 gallon breeder	Too small
55 gallon	up to 6
75 gallon	up to 9
125 gallon	up to 15

Check pictus catfish against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

Keep at least 3. In smaller numbers they are stressed, or one gets picked on.
It eats fish small enough to swallow. Choose tankmates at least half its length.

Tank mates for pictus catfish

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

Neon tetra: Pictus catfish (about 5 in) can eat neon tetra (about 1.4 in).
Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as pictus catfish.
Molly: They need different water: Pictus catfish likes a pH of 6–7.5, molly likes 7.5–8.5.

Questions and answers

What size tank do pictus catfish need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 3. The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many pictus catfish should be kept together?

At least 3. Pictus catfish are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.

Can pictus catfish live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Pictus catfish needs at least 55 gallons (208 liters).

What temperature do pictus catfish need?

72–79 °F (22–26 °C), with a pH of 6–7.5. In most homes that means a heater.

Can pictus catfish live with a betta?

Usually, yes, in a tank of 55 gallons (208 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–79 °F (24–26 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.