Planiceps catfish

A uniquely shaped, large-growing predatory catfish, the Planiceps or Firewood Catfish is found throughout the middle Amazon in Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador where it is a prized food fish. Juvenile fish have impressive butterfly-like pectoral fins which develop into more traditional fins as they grow. Like most of its relatives, they tend to be found in fast-moving stretches of murky water, and they rely on their sensitive barbels much more than their limited eyesight to find prey. In the aquarium, they prefer dim lighting, ample hiding places, and pristine water quality (maintaining high levels of dissolved oxygen is especially important). Due to their enormous adult size, they require a substantial indoor pond to be kept long term.