Tiger Shovelnose Catfish – Freshwater

The Tiger Shovelnose Catfish is an impressive freshwater predator recognized by its elongated body, broad shovel-shaped head, long whiskers, and dramatic tiger-like markings. This active catfish can become a breathtaking centerpiece for an appropriately sized monster-fish aquarium.

Although sold as a small juvenile, the Tiger Shovelnose grows quickly and can eventually reach approximately three feet in length. It requires an exceptionally large aquarium, powerful filtration, and a long-term care plan. This species is intended for experienced aquarists who understand the requirements of very large predatory freshwater fish.

One small Tiger Shovelnose Catfish is included.

Fish Care

Scientific Name: Pseudoplatystoma species
Common Name: Tiger Shovelnose Catfish
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive and Predatory
Approximate Adult Size: Up to 36 Inches or Larger
Minimum Adult Aquarium Size: 300 Gallons or Larger
Water Temperature: 75–82°F
pH: 6.0–8.0
Water Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
Diet: Carnivore
Aquarium Level: Bottom to Middle
Freshwater Only: Yes

Aquarium Requirements

Tiger Shovelnose Catfish require an exceptionally large aquarium with substantial open swimming space. Juveniles may temporarily be maintained in smaller grow-out aquariums, but an appropriately sized permanent aquarium must be planned before purchasing.

Use powerful biological and mechanical filtration capable of handling a large predatory fish and its substantial waste production. Provide smooth driftwood, rounded rocks, and secure structures without sharp edges that could damage the fish’s sensitive barbels or body.

A tightly fitting and properly secured aquarium lid is strongly recommended. All decorations, heaters, plumbing, and equipment should be protected from accidental movement or contact as the fish grows.

Feeding

Tiger Shovelnose Catfish are carnivorous predators. Offer a varied diet of high-quality sinking carnivore pellets, shrimp, krill, mussels, earthworms, and appropriately sized frozen or prepared meaty foods.

Avoid routinely feeding live feeder fish because they may introduce parasites or disease and do not provide a consistently balanced diet. Do not overfeed. Juveniles may be fed smaller meals regularly, while larger specimens should receive appropriately portioned meals less frequently.

Tank Mates

Only keep this species with robust fish that are too large to swallow. Any fish that fits inside the Tiger Shovelnose Catfish’s mouth may eventually be viewed as food.

Potential tank mates may include appropriately sized large cichlids, pacu, arowanas, large plecos, bichirs, and other compatible monster fish. Compatibility is never guaranteed, and individual behavior must be monitored carefully.

Avoid small community fish, shrimp, snails, and slow or delicate species.

Acclimation

Keep the aquarium lights dim or turned off during acclimation. Gradually acclimate the fish to the aquarium’s temperature and water conditions, and never add shipping water to the main aquarium.

Provide a quiet environment after introduction and allow the fish time to settle before offering food. Temporary hiding or reduced activity may occur during the adjustment period.

Quarantine and Availability

This fish is supplied through SAQ Chicago and may ship within an approximately 14-day quarantine window, depending on its current stage of quarantine.

Please allow additional processing time before shipment. Tracking information will be provided once the fish has completed preparation and has been transferred to the carrier.

Live-Fish Shipping

Live fish ship by FedEx Priority Overnight for a flat $39.99 livestock shipping charge. Orders containing $300 or more in qualifying live animals receive free live-animal shipping.

Live-animal orders ship Monday through Wednesday to reduce the risk of weekend carrier delays.

Live Arrival and DOA Guarantee

Your fish is protected by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Please inspect all livestock immediately upon delivery.

Any dead-on-arrival claim must be submitted within 12 hours of the carrier-recorded delivery time. Clear photographs showing the affected animal outside of the shipping water must be included with the claim. Please do not discard the animal or its packaging until the claim has been reviewed.

Claims submitted after the 12-hour reporting window or without the required photographs may not qualify for coverage. Please review our complete Live Arrival Guarantee before ordering.

Why Shop With Infinity & Beyond Aquatics?

• Carefully coordinated livestock orders

• Protective insulated packaging appropriate for current weather conditions

• Priority Overnight live-animal shipping

• Live Arrival and DOA protection

• Support with acclimation, compatibility, feeding, and long-term care

• Personal service from experienced aquarium keepers

Important Livestock Notice

The product photograph is representative of the fish you will receive. Natural size, coloration, pattern, and appearance will vary between individual fish.

This species can reach approximately three feet and is not suitable for a standard community aquarium. Please confirm that you can provide an appropriately sized long-term home before ordering.

This is a freshwater fish and must never be placed in a saltwater aquarium.