columbian shark

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Columbian Shark: An In-Depth Look

The Columbian shark (Ariopsis seemanni), also known as the Tete sea catfish, is a fascinating brackish-water species popular in home aquariums. Native to the Pacific coast of Central and South America, it’s often misidentified and misunderstood. Despite its “shark” moniker, it’s a catfish.

Habitat and Distribution

Columbian sharks inhabit brackish waters like estuaries, mangrove swamps, and river mouths along the Pacific coast, ranging from southern Mexico to Peru. They prefer environments with a mix of fresh and saltwater, tolerating a wide salinity range. These areas are often murky and nutrient-rich, providing ample food sources.

Appearance and Size

These fish have a distinctive appearance, characterized by a dark grey or bluish-grey body. They possess a flattened head, whisker-like barbels around their mouth, and sharp spines on their dorsal and pectoral fins. While often sold as juveniles at a small size, Columbian sharks can reach up to 14 inches (35 cm) in length in captivity and the wild. It’s crucial to consider this adult size before acquiring them.

Diet and Behavior

Columbian sharks are opportunistic omnivores. In their natural habitat, they feed on crustaceans, insects, small fish, and plant matter. In aquariums, they readily accept a variety of foods, including sinking pellets, frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and even small pieces of chopped seafood. They are generally peaceful towards other fish of similar size but may prey on very small tank mates. They exhibit schooling behavior, particularly when young, but can become more solitary as they mature.

Care in Captivity

Keeping Columbian sharks in an aquarium requires specific considerations. A large tank is essential, with a minimum of 75 gallons for a single individual and significantly larger for a group. The water should be brackish, maintained with aquarium salt to a specific gravity of around 1.005 to 1.010. Regular water changes are crucial to maintain water quality. The tank should also include hiding places like rocks and driftwood. It’s very important to note that this species is not suitable for beginners due to their specific needs and eventual size.

For more detailed information, you can refer to Wikipedia’s article on Tete sea catfish.

Common Misconceptions

A common misconception is that Columbian sharks are purely freshwater fish. This is incorrect; they require brackish water to thrive long-term. Another misconception is that they remain small. As mentioned previously, they can grow to a considerable size, necessitating a large aquarium.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Columbian sharks aggressive?

Columbian sharks are generally peaceful towards fish of similar size. However, they may eat very small fish. It’s important to choose tank mates carefully.

What do Columbian sharks eat?

They are omnivores and eat a variety of foods, including crustaceans, insects, small fish, and plant matter. In aquariums, they accept sinking pellets, frozen foods, and chopped seafood.

How big do Columbian sharks get?

They can grow up to 14 inches (35 cm) in length.

Can Columbian sharks live in freshwater?

No, they require brackish water to thrive.

What size tank do Columbian sharks need?

A minimum of 75 gallons for a single individual, larger for a group.

Summary

The Columbian shark is a fascinating brackish-water catfish that requires specific care in captivity. Understanding their needs regarding habitat, diet, and tank size is crucial for their well-being. While often mistaken for a purely freshwater fish, they necessitate brackish conditions to thrive and are not suitable for beginner aquarists due to their particular environmental requirements and potential adult size.

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