Description
Milky Way Wood Catfish (Tatia galaxia)
Overview
The Milky Way Wood Catfish is a small, peaceful freshwater catfish with a unique dark body speckled with tiny white spots, reminiscent of a starry night—hence the “Milky Way” name. Nocturnal and bottom-dwelling, it is ideal for planted tanks with driftwood and hiding spots.
Origin
Native to the Amazon Basin in South America, inhabiting slow-moving rivers, streams, and flooded forests with plenty of submerged wood and leaf litter.
Feeding
Omnivorous bottom-feeder. Accepts sinking pellets, frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and small live foods. Supplementing with algae wafers or detritus-based foods helps mimic natural feeding habits.
Tank Mates
Peaceful and best kept with other calm community fish of similar size, such as small tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid large or aggressive species.
Aggression
Very low. Territorial disputes are minimal if multiple hiding spots are provided. Prefers to hide during the day and forage at night.
Experience Level
Intermediate. Requires stable water conditions, hiding spaces, and a soft substrate to thrive.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 73°F – 79°F (23°C – 26°C)
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pH: 6.0 – 7.5
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Hardness: 2 – 12 dGH
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Notes: Provide driftwood, caves, and leaf litter to replicate natural habitat and encourage natural behavior.
Unique, peaceful, and visually stunning, the Milky Way Wood Catfish (Tatia galaxia) is perfect for aquarists seeking an eye-catching nocturnal bottom-dweller for planted South American tanks.