Adapting to just about every aquatic niche in Tropical and temperate regions, Catfishes are ever present in all sectors of the hobby. From tepid freshwater marshy waters, to deep clear lakes, and fast-flowing rivers, brackish environments such as estuaries, mangroves, to coastal bays, coral reefs, and other saltwater habitats. There are even a few species, which have adapted to underwater caverns and streams, living in the pure twilight of darkness. Catfishes are definitely one of the most evolutionary successful families of fishes.

Some freshwater catfish get quite large, and are better suited to a larger predatory tank. A lot of the common species in the hobby today get to behemoth sizes unbeknownst to the buyer, and should not be kept unless a large tank of over 100 gallons with lot’s of free swimming space can be provided. For the planted aquarium though there are plenty of smaller peaceful species, which make interesting and beneficial additions to the vegetated ecosystem. Amongst those the most notable are the Corydoras, or Cory cats, and the smaller Plecostomus or Plecos. Both are highly beneficial for the aquarium as they contribute to the overall ecosystem.

Hailing from the Amazon, Cory cats are excellent bottom feeders, and every community tank can benefit from these little cleaners. With big appetites, a small group of at least six or more will constantly comb the tank’s substrate for food, picking up any vagrant edible items missed by the other surface feeding residents.