Common Name: Crocodile Goonch Catfish
Scientific Name: Bagarius suchus
Other Names: Crocodile Catfish
The Crocodile Goonch Catfish is a wild-caught river catfish from Southeast Asia. Bagarius catfish have a flattened, mottled brown and tan body, a broad head and long fin extensions, giving them excellent camouflage on rocky river beds. It is a hardy, impressive catfish that is highly prized by monster-fish keepers.
Habitat and Distribution:
Bagarius suchus is found in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins of Southeast Asia, where it lives in fast-flowing rivers with rocky or gravel bottoms. These rivers are cool for the tropics, fast and highly oxygenated.
Size and Lifespan:
It can reach about 2 feet (60 cm). Lifespan in captivity is not well documented for this species, but with good care it can be expected to live for many years.
Diet and Behavior:
It is carnivorous and feeds on fish and crustaceans in the wild. In the aquarium, offer shrimp, fish and sinking carnivore pellets. It is an ambush predator that often rests motionless on the bottom, blending in with the rocks, before striking at passing prey, and it will eat any fish it can swallow. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Goonch catfish are not bred in home aquariums; fish in the trade are wild-caught. Little is documented about its breeding habits in the wild.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of 300 gallons or more is recommended for an adult, with strong water flow from powerful filtration or additional pumps. Provide rockwork and smooth river stones for cover, keep oxygen levels high, and use a secure lid. The water temperature should be kept between 72-79°F (22-26°C), with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and soft to hard water. Regular partial water changes are essential to maintain water quality, and new arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Keep it with large, robust tank mates that cannot be swallowed and that tolerate strong current, such as large barbs, large loaches and other river catfish. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. It needs strong flow, high oxygen and a large tank. It is recommended only for experienced aquarists with the resources to meet its long-term needs.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- It comes from fast rivers, so strong filtration and water movement are important.
- It has large, sharp teeth, so take care during maintenance.
- It does not tolerate warm, stagnant water.
The Crocodile Goonch Catfish is a formidable river predator for experienced keepers. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
