Pinocchio Whiptail Catfish 10cm

Pinocchio Whiptail Catfish

The Pinocchio Whiptail Catfish is one of the most unusual-looking freshwater catfish available in the aquarium hobby. Named after its elongated snout, this peaceful species combines fascinating behaviour with an elegant appearance, making it a favourite among aquascapers and catfish enthusiasts alike. Their calm temperament and algae-grazing habits also make them an excellent addition to planted community aquariums.

The most distinctive feature of the Pinocchio Whiptail Catfish is its remarkably elongated snout, which gives the species its common name. Their body is long and slender, with earthy shades of brown, tan and olive that provide excellent camouflage among driftwood and leaf litter. Fine dark patterning runs across the body and fins, helping them blend naturally into the aquarium. Unlike many plecos, whiptails spend much of their time resting on leaves, wood and rocks rather than hiding away completely, making them a fascinating species to observe.

Sexing mature fish is relatively straightforward, with males developing small odontodes along the sides of the head and pectoral fins. Breeding has been achieved in aquariums, with males guarding eggs that are attached to flat surfaces, driftwood or even the aquarium glass until they hatch.

Tank Recommendations for your Pinocchio Whiptail Catfish

A minimum aquarium size of 100 litres is recommended.

These fish thrive in mature planted aquariums with driftwood, broad-leaved plants and gentle to moderate water movement. Fine sand substrates are preferred, as they naturally forage along the bottom throughout the day.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Pinocchio Whiptail Catfish are exceptionally peaceful and thrive in community aquariums.

Usually Compatible
Tetras, rasboras, corydoras, angelfish, dwarf cichlids, rainbowfish and most peaceful community fish.

Sometimes Compatible
Other whiptails or smaller plecos can be housed together successfully, provided enough resting areas are available.

Rarely Compatible
Large aggressive cichlids or predatory catfish that may bully or outcompete these gentle fish for food.

Feeding your Pinocchio Whiptail Catfish

These fish spend much of the day grazing on biofilm and algae but still require supplemental feeding. A quality sinking wafer or pellet should be offered daily, along with blanched vegetables and occasional frozen foods such as bloodworms or blackworms.