Rob's Aquatics Fish Shop
Irwini Catfish
Irwini Catfish
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🛡️ Irwini Catfish (Megalodoras irwini) – Armored South American Gentle Giant
The Irwini Catfish (Megalodoras irwini) is a heavily armored, slow-moving giant from the Amazon basin that brings both personality and prehistoric appeal to large aquariums. With its thick, bony scutes, long barbels, and calm demeanor, this peaceful giant is a perfect bottom-dweller for monster fish tanks, predator grow-outs, or South American biotopes.
At juvenile sizes, these fish are already built like tanks, but they maintain a peaceful attitude—making them compatible with a wide range of large tankmates. As they grow, their broad, flattened heads and subtle spotted markings give them a unique and ancient appearance.
🐟 Species Profile:
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Scientific Name: Megalodoras irwini
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Common Names: Irwini Catfish, Giant Raphael Catfish
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Size: Typically reaches 24–30 inches in captivity
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Temperament: Peaceful, hardy, bottom-dweller
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Tank Size: 240+ gallons (large footprint tank required)
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Water Parameters: 75–82°F | pH 6.5–7.5 | Well-oxygenated, clean water
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Diet: Omnivore – accepts sinking carnivore pellets, shrimp, bloodworms, earthworms, and occasional vegetables
🧱 Habitat & Tank Setup:
Irwinis thrive in:
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Spacious aquariums with sand or fine gravel substrate
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Plenty of hiding places—they love driftwood, caves, and low-light zones
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Moderate flow and strong filtration due to their size and bio-load
Compatible with:
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Arowanas, Peacock Bass, Bichirs, Knifefish, Pacu, Tiger Shovelnose, Redtail Catfish
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Not aggressive, but small fish may be mistaken for food
Irwinis are incredibly hardy and adapt well to captivity, often becoming hand-feeding, personable giants that cruise the bottom of large predator tanks without issue.
🛒 Why Buy from RobsAquatics.com?
Each Irwini Catfish is:
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✅ Well-started and feeding on prepared foods
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✅ Hand-selected from trusted South American suppliers
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✅ Shipped live with expert packaging and our Live Arrival Guarantee
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✅ An ideal monster community bottom-dweller that stands the test of time
📦 Limited stock available – Irwinis are rarely offered at this size and quality. Add this armored giant to your predator tank—only at RobsAquatics.com.
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