Tank setup
A minimum 5000L aquarium suits Vundu Catfish. Use robust décor and sight breaks; territorial species need defined territories.
pH
6.5 - 8
Temperature
20° - 28 °C
Max size
150 cm
Min tank
5000 L
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What to know before you buy.
The Vundu is one of Africa's largest freshwater fish, a massive air-breathing catfish found in rivers and lakes throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Capable of exceeding 1.5 metres in length and weighing over 55 kilograms, it is an apex predator in its native habitat. It possesses an accessory breathing organ that allows it to survive in low-oxygen environments. Keeping a Vundu requires a specialized permit from provincial nature conservation authorities in South Africa.
Key traits
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Everything you need to keep Vundu Catfish healthy in a South African setup.
A minimum 5000L aquarium suits Vundu Catfish. Use robust décor and sight breaks; territorial species need defined territories.
Keep pH 6.5–8 and 20–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Vundu Catfish is carnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for monster fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Vundu Catfish is generally aggressive. Observe during feeding and at lights-out for true temperament.
Pair with similarly sized aggressive tankmates in monster fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding notes for Vundu Catfish vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
From hobbyists across SA.

Species that typically work alongside Vundu Catfish in a similar setup.