Raphael catfish (also called striped Raphael or talking catfish) are nocturnal bottom feeders that do well on sinking pellets or wafers, frozen foods like bloodworms and shrimp, and the occasional live treat. Feed them after the aquarium lights go out.
About Raphael Catfish
The fish usually sold as the Raphael catfish is Platydoras armatulus, a South American armored catfish. It gets its nickname “talking catfish” from the croaking or grunting sounds it can make, often when handled. It hides in caves and wood during the day and comes out at night to forage.
What to Feed
- Sinking pellets or wafers: a good staple. Choose a quality sinking carnivore or catfish pellet so the food reaches the bottom before other fish take it.
- Frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp and chopped earthworm are all good. Thaw before feeding.
- Live or fresh foods: blackworms and small pieces of unseasoned shrimp are a treat. Occasional small foods are fine, but don’t overdo meaty foods.
- Vegetable matter: an occasional blanched zucchini slice or algae wafer adds variety. See our post on algae wafers for bottom feeders.
Raphaels have a big mouth for their size and can swallow small fish such as tiny tetras, so choose tank mates that are too large to fit.
How and When to Feed
Feed one or two times a day, starting just before or after lights out. If the catfish hides during the day, drop the food in once the lights go off and let it forage. Watch the belly. A rounded but not bloated belly is healthy, and a swollen one means you’re feeding too much. Remove uneaten food after several hours.
Tank Setup
Raphael catfish can grow to about 6 to 9 inches and can live many years, so plan for a roomy tank with caves, driftwood and a smooth substrate. Provide hiding places so they feel safe enough to come out and eat. Keep water clean with regular partial changes and a good filter.
More Catfish Food Guides
For other bottom feeders see our guides on sinking tropical fish food, what to feed bristlenose catfish and cheap catfish food.
Bottom Line
Give Raphael catfish sinking pellets and a mix of frozen foods after dark, keep tank mates too big to be eaten and give them plenty of hiding places. If your catfish stops eating, hides all the time or has damaged barbels, check the water and call an aquatic vet if it continues.
