Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm
The Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm is a slender, peaceful bottom‑dweller with a distinctive “stick‑like” body and long tail. Ideal for planted and soft‑substrate aquariums, the Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm enjoys gentle flow, clean water and plenty of wood, leaves and hiding spots to mimic its natural riverbed habitat.
Appearance & Behaviour of Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm
- Long, slender body with a flattened underside
- Camouflage patterning that helps it blend into sand and wood
- Extended tail filament giving the classic “whiptail” appearance
- Peaceful, shy nature – often resting quietly on the substrate or décor
Tank Requirements for Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm
- Tank size: A well‑established aquarium from around 80–100L+ is recommended
- Substrate: Fine sand or very smooth gravel to protect their delicate undersides
- Décor: Driftwood, roots, rocks and leaf litter to provide cover and grazing surfaces
- Lighting: Moderate to low light, with shaded areas from plants or hardscape
- Water: Clean, well‑filtered water with gentle to moderate flow
Tank Mates for Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm
- Ideal with small to medium peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, peaceful cichlids and livebearers
- Works well alongside Corydoras, smaller plecos and other gentle bottom dwellers if space allows
- Avoid large, aggressive or boisterous fish that may outcompete or harass them
Feeding the Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm
- Sinking wafers and pellets designed for catfish and plecos
- Algae wafers and vegetable‑based foods
- Occasional frozen or live foods such as bloodworm or daphnia for extra protein
- Supplementary foods offered after lights out so shy fish can feed in peace
Perfect for Natural & Planted Aquariums
- Blends in beautifully with sand, wood and leaf litter
- Adds interest to the lower levels without disturbing plants
- Complements peaceful community fish and shrimp (with appropriate cover)
Common Whiptail Catfish 5cm



