White Spotted Doradid (5cm) – a hardy, peaceful catfish with striking white spots and bony armor. Perfect for community tanks and experienced aquarists.

The White Spotted Doradid (Agamyxis albomaculatus) is a beautiful and unique armored catfish that brings both function and personality to your aquarium. Known for its dark body covered in bold white spots, this species is highly sought after for its eye-catching appearance and robust nature.

At 5 cm when sold (juvenile stage), the White Spotted Doradid can grow up to 15 cm (6 inches) in adulthood, making it suitable for medium to large community aquariums. Its armored body and spiny fins provide excellent protection, while its peaceful and shy temperament ensures it coexists well with most tank mates.

✅ Key Features

• Size: 5 cm juvenile, up to 15 cm adult

• Temperament: Peaceful, nocturnal bottom-dweller

• Care Level: Moderate

• Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care

• Special Trait: Armored plating and distinctive white spots

Care Guide for White Spotted Doradid

✅ Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 120 liters (30 gallons)

• Aquascape: Provide hiding spots using caves, driftwood, and PVC pipes

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Lighting: Dim or subdued – they prefer low light

• Cover: Secure lid; they may jump when startled

Tip: Keep at least 2–3 individuals if possible, as they are more comfortable in small groups.

✅ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 23°C – 28°C (73°F – 82°F)

• pH Level: 6.0 – 7.5

• Water Hardness: 5 – 20 dGH

• Filtration: Strong filtration with moderate current

• Water Changes: 30% weekly to maintain pristine conditions

✅ Feeding Habits

The White Spotted Doradid is omnivorous, feeding mostly at night.

• Recommended Diet:

  • Sinking carnivore pellets

  • Algae wafers

  • Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

  • Occasional vegetables (blanched zucchini or cucumber)

Feed once daily after lights out to match their nocturnal habits.

✅ Tank Mates

This species is peaceful and suitable for community tanks with similarly sized fish.

Ideal Tank Mates:

• Medium tetras

• Peaceful cichlids (Severum, Keyhole)

• Corydoras catfish

• Silver Dollars

• Larger Rasboras

Avoid aggressive species or very small fish that may be mistaken for food.

✅ Behavior & Breeding

• Behavior: Nocturnal and shy during the day; active at night

• Breeding: Extremely rare in home aquariums

Fun Fact: They can produce a clicking or croaking sound when disturbed, which is why they are sometimes called Talking Catfish.

Why Choose White Spotted Doradid?

• Unique armored body with striking spots

• Peaceful and hardy, perfect for community tanks

• Great bottom cleaner, reducing leftover food waste

• Long-lived and low-maintenance for experienced aquarists

✅ Perfect for South American biotope setups and large aquariums
✅ A functional yet beautiful species for any advanced collection