The river cobbler is an interesting and unique catfish species perfect for community tanks. Read on to learn about properly caring for these armored scavengers!
Introducing the River Cobbler Fish
River Cobbler Fish General Info
- Origin: Native to rivers in Thailand and possibly Vietnam
- Size: Up to 5 inches long as adults
- Lifespan: Approximately 10 years with proper care
- Temperament: Peaceful bottom-dwellers, not aggressive
- Appearance: Flattened armored plated body, small dots, downturned mouth
- Varieties: Generally uniform brown/gray coloration, no major variations
- Price: $8 – $15 per fish on average
Habitat and Tank Needs
- Natural Habitat: Tropical rivers with sandy or muddy substrates
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallon, provide at least 20 gallons per fish
- Water Parameters: 72-82°F; pH 6.5-7.5; soft to moderately hard
- Tank Setup: Fine sandy substrate, driftwood, live plants, dim lighting, moderate current
River Cobbler Fish Diet and Feeding
- Diet: Omnivorous bottom feeders, eat insects, plant matter, aufwuchs in the wild
- Feeding: Provide sinking tablets, granules, supplements with meaty foods 1-2x daily
Foods:
- Sinking pellets/tablets for catfish or algae eaters
- Frozen or live blackworms, brine shrimp, bloodworms
- Blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, spinach
- Spirulina flakes or tablets
- Supplement with calcium-rich foods
River Cobbler Fish Breeding and Reproduction
- Reproduction: Cave spawners; no parental care for eggs or fry
- Breeding Conditions: Soft, acidic water between 75-79°F. Provide flat rocks or clay spawning caves.
- Spawning Process: No obvious courtship behaviors. Hundreds of eggs deposited on cave roof and walls. Eggs hatch in 3-5 days. Fry are independent immediately.
Common Health Issues
- Generally hardy species if given clean water and appropriate diet.
- Sensitive to poor water quality and fluctuations in water parameters.
- May be prone to fungal infections and ich if stressed.
- Prevent health problems with pristine water, quarantining new fish, and nutritious foods.
Special Care and Compatibility
- Peaceful community fish suitable for planted tanks. Avoid very aggressive tank mates.
- Best kept in small groups. Give plenty of sandy substrate for sifting and foraging.
- No known legal restrictions on keeping river cobbler fish.
Suitable Tank Mates
- Loaches
- Small barbs
- Tetras
- Other peaceful catfish
- Dwarf cichlids
- Danios
- Rainbowfish
Identifying Male vs Female River Cobblers
- Females tend to be slightly larger and broader bodied, especially when laden with eggs.
- Males may develop longer fin rays as they mature.
- No major difference in coloration between genders.
Species Count:
Just one recognized species, Leiocassis siamensis.
Enhancing Color:
Provide a varied diet rich in carotenoids from vegetables and algae.
Max Size:
Up to 5 inches in home aquariums.
Growth Rate:
Relatively slow growing, reaching max size after 2-3 years.
Lifespan:
Approximately 10 years with excellent care and water quality.
Care Tips:
Give fine sandy substrates and places to hide. Keep in groups. Maintain clean water.
Best Foods:
Hikari Sinking Carnivore Pellets, live blackworms, blanched zucchini.
Good Pet Fish?
Yes, peaceful and unique addition to community tanks.
Preventing Death:
Test water frequently and perform regular partial water changes. Promptly treat any diseases.
Aggression Level:
Not aggressive, suitable for peaceful community tanks.
Will They Kill Other Fish?
No, river cobblers are not predatory toward other fish. Safe community fish.
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