Wallago attu, commonly known as the Giant Catfish, is a very large catfish originating from parts of Thailand, Java, Indian, Malaysia and Burma. They are highly predatory, pure carnivores and considered extremely dangerous. They are obviously best suited to public aquaria.

The body of Wallago attu is large and slender, the whole last 2\3 of the fish's body being the tail. Their body color is made up of blotches of black, brown and grey. All fins follow the same color pattern. The anal fin is very long-based, resembling the blade of a sword.

Tank Setup

A fish this size requires an even larger aquarium. A tank of no less than 500 gallons must be used, even for small juveniles. Large rocks should be available for shelter. Use a very tight-fitting canopy.

Feeding

Giant Catfish are voracious predators and must be fed large amounts of live foods. Juveniles may be encouraged to take prepared meaty foods such as beef heart or carnivorous pellets. Allow for periods of fasting after large meals.

Water Chemistry

Keep these monsters in water with a pH value between 6.8-7.4 and temperature between 72-77 degrees F. A powerful biological filtration system must be used to keep the water in good quality while compensating for the large amount of waste the fish produces.

Breeding

Breeding of such a large and aggressive species is virtually impossible in the home aquarium. Sexing information is unknown.

Concluding

Wallago attu really should not be considered an aquarium fish. They are extremely dangerous and better observed in their natural habitat or in public aquariums where they can be kept in justifiable conditions.