Black Ripsaw Catfish: Complete Care Guide & Where to Buy
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🐟 What Is a Black Ripsaw Catfish?
The Black Ripsaw Catfish (Oxydoras niger), also known as the Ripsaw Cat or Niger Catfish, is a massive, armor-plated species native to the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Named after the sharp bony scutes on its sides, this monster catfish can reach up to 3 feet long in captivity, making it a show-stopping bottom-dweller in large aquariums.
At Rob’s Aquatics, we stock healthy, tank-raised Ripsaw Catfish perfect for serious hobbyists.
👉 Buy Black Ripsaw Catfish Now
📏 How Big Do Black Ripsaw Catfish Get?
This is a true giant of the freshwater world.
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Juveniles: 3–6 inches when sold
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Adult size: Up to 36 inches (90+ cm)
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Tank size: Minimum 300 gallons for adults
They grow steadily over 1–2 years, and need massive filtration, oxygenation, and open swimming space.
🏗️ Ideal Tank Setup for Ripsaw Catfish
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Tank size: 240–500+ gallons recommended
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Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel (they like to sift)
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Décor: Driftwood, large stones, wide open floor space
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Lighting: Low to moderate (they’re shy and nocturnal)
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Filtration: Sumps or dual canister filters
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Aeration: Strong oxygenation preferred
💡 Bonus: Use powerheads to create a gentle current that mimics their native rivers.
🍽️ Black Ripsaw Catfish Diet
Ripsaws are omnivores and detritus feeders, but will eagerly accept a variety of aquarium foods.
Feeding Tips:
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Sinking pellets (Hikari, NorthFin)
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Repashy bottom-feeder gel foods
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Fresh/frozen shrimp, tilapia, bloodworms
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Blanched vegetables (zucchini, peas)
Avoid aggressive feeders that will outcompete them for food.
🤝 Tankmates for Ripsaw Catfish
The Black Ripsaw is peaceful but large, making it suitable for monster community tanks with the right tankmates:
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Compatible: Oscars, Peacock Bass, Arowanas, Datnoids, Bichirs, other large catfish
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Avoid: Small fish (may get eaten), fin-nippers, or overly aggressive cichlids
Their thick armor makes them resilient, but always monitor interactions closely.
🧬 Behavior & Temperament
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Nocturnal but will adapt to daytime feedings
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Peaceful bottom-dweller
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Territorial with other large catfish if space is limited
🌡️ Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 76–82°F |
| pH | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | < 40 ppm |
Weekly water changes (30–50%) are a must due to their size and bioload.
⏳ Growth & Lifespan
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Growth Rate: Medium (1–2 inches/month in ideal conditions)
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Lifespan: 10–15+ years in captivity
With the right care, a Black Ripsaw can become the centerpiece of your monster tank for over a decade.
🛒 Where to Buy Black Ripsaw Catfish
At RobsAquatics.com, we pride ourselves on sourcing high-quality Black Ripsaw Catfish. Every fish is:
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Quarantined for health
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Tank-raised and acclimated
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Shipped overnight with a live arrival guarantee
👉 Shop Black Ripsaw Catfish Now
🔗 Related Reads:
✅ Final Thoughts: Is the Ripsaw Cat Right for You?
The Black Ripsaw Catfish is perfect for advanced aquarists who want a peaceful, prehistoric-looking monster that adds movement, size, and mystery to the bottom of the tank. If you’ve got the space and the passion, this fish is a worthy addition to your collection.
🛒 Ready to own one of the coolest catfish in the hobby?
👉 Order Your Ripsaw Catfish Here