.........................European Wels
Other names:...........Wels catfish Origin:......................Europe, UK Max size:..................120" PH:............-..............6.4-7.5 Temperature:...........40-68 F. Min tank size:..........1500 gallons Food:........................Anything! |
The ultimate tankbuster! Growing well over 10 feet in length, this fish is definitely not for the home aquarium. The largest specimen ever recorded by man was over 16 feet long and weighed an amazing 675 pounds. The fish resembles a channel catfish except for its tail, which is long and slender. The European Wels catfish is a dark flat black with a light belly. Caudal and anal fins are very long-based. Albino specimens have also been discovered.
European Wels are occasionally seen in public aquaria. The fact that they prefer cold water makes them that much less available to aquarists. These fish do pretty well in a backyard pond if you can get your hands on one, but a constant supply of food and a large pond are obviously needed. They are very dirty catfish that will create a ton of waste. Regular water changes are needed.
This fish will eat just about anything. Whole apples at a time, frogs, other fish, even whole beef hearts are downed like M&M's.
In the wild, these fish breed in the spring time in shallow, marshy areas near the banks of rivers and lakes. About 100,000 green, adhesive eggs are laid onto plants by the female and guarded by the male. The eggs hatch in 2-3 weeks and resemble tadpoles. They grow very rapidly as you might expect.
We appreciate your feedback.