Catla Fish with the scientific name Gibelion catla, belong to the carp family Cyprinidae. They are silvery fish with darker gray upper bodies and white bellies. Prossess large mirror-like scales and sharp dorsal fins. Size can exceed over 4 feet in length and 70 pounds in weight!
Introduce Catla Freshwater Fish
General Information
- Origin: Native to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, and Myanmar
- Max Size: 4 feet long and 70 lbs
- Lifespan: 15 years in ideal conditions
- Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
- Appearance: Silvery gray back, white underside, large mirror-like scales
- Popular Varieties: No major color variants, geographic strains vary slightly
- Average Cost: $5-$10 for juvenile
Habitat and Care
- Natural Habitat: Slow rivers, lakes, marshes, flooded plains
- Tank Size: Large 300+ gallon aquarium
- Water Parameters: Prefers pH 6.5-7.5, temperature 70-80°F
- Tank Setup: Open swimming areas, soft substrate, moderate current
Feeding
- Diet: Omnivore feeding on insects, plankton, plants, small fish
- Feeding Habits: Surface feeder that accepts flakes, pellets, live foods
Foods:
- Shrimp
- Earthworms
- Quality flakes
- Smelt
- Pelleted foods
Breeding and Lifecycle
- Reproduction: egg scatterers with no parental care
- Breeding Environment: Spawning triggered by onset of monsoons, requires large pond or tank
- Spawning Process: Males chase females prior to spawning, scatter eggs which are externally fertilized
Common Health Concerns
- Ichthyophthirius (Ich) parasite, causes white spots
- Fin rot from poor water conditions
- Gill flukes – use anti-parasitic treatments
- Maintain excellent water quality and diet
Special Care Considerations
- Compatibility: Do best in species only tanks due to large size
- Care Level: Moderate to advanced. Require large systems.
- Legalities: None, can be owned without regulation
Suitable Tankmates:
- Other large peaceful fish like koi
- Common carp
- Silver carp
- Grass carp
Sexual Differences:
Males are smaller in size compared to females. No distinct color differences.
In summary, a giant, graceful fish that demands advanced care and huge aquarium systems. While challenging to keep, they are impressive fish that can grow to mammoth sizes if properly maintained. Let me know if you have any other
How many species exist?
There is one recognized species, Gibelion. Geographic varieties may occur across its range.
What makes their colors shine?
Catla do not display bright colors. Feed a balanced diet to bring out their natural silvery sheen.
How big do they grow?
Catla can reach up to 4 feet long and weights exceeding 70 lbs, making them giants.
How quickly do they grow?
They are fast growing fish, potentially gaining over a foot within their first year if fed sufficient rations.
What is the typical catla lifespan?
Approximately 10-15 years in ideal tank conditions. Growth and lifespan depend partly on tank size.
How are catla fish best cared for?
Require massive aquariums with open swimming room. Perform large weekly water changes and feed quality foods.
What are some recommended food brands?
Hikari, Omega One, and other high end brands provide balanced nutrition for giant fish like catla.
Are catla suitable beginner fish?
No. Catla need advanced care and massive tank systems. Better suited to public aquariums.
Why did my catla suddenly die?
Stress, poor water quality, improper diet, disease outbreaks, or old age can cause sudden deaths.
Are catla aggressive towards other fish?
Catla are peaceful giants. Monitor for aggression if tank space is limited.
Can catla be kept with small fish?
No, their giant size makes them incompatible with small species which could be eaten or bullied.
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