Wertheimeria maculata

A rare and spectacularly patterned catfish known only from certain river systems in Southeastern Brazil, the Jewel Spotted Doradid or Snoring Catfish is a rarity in the aquarium hobby that has only recently been imported into the US. Found in a variety of riverine habitats in Minas Gerais state in Brazil, this species is now captive bred in its native Brazil on a small scale. Hardy and relatively undemanding, juvenile fish tend to be uniformly black in color but will develop large white or pale yellow spots or blotches with an iridescent hue, making for an impressive display fish in the aquarium. Like most medium growing Doradid Cats, they are peaceful towards any tankmates too large to be a meal and should be offered plenty of hiding places.