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Black Ear Pangasius

Posted by Max Gandara on on 28th May 2025

Black Ear Pangasius Catfish: A Sleek and Social Freshwater Giant

If you’re searching for a graceful, active, and peaceful addition to your large freshwater aquarium, the Black Ear Pangasius Catfish (Pangasius larnaudi) might just be the perfect choice. Known for its sleek silver body and the distinctive black spot behind its gill—often called the “black ear”—this species combines beauty, personality, and schooling behavior that makes it a captivating centerpiece fish.

Let’s dive deeper into what makes the Black Ear Pangasius a fascinating fish to keep and how you can provide the best care for it.

What is the Black Ear Pangasius Catfish?

The Black Ear Pangasius is a member of the Pangasiidae family, native to the Mekong River basin in Southeast Asia. It’s often confused with other Pangasius species such as the Iridescent Shark (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus), but it’s distinguished by the bold black mark behind the gills that resembles an ear patch.

This species is known for its streamlined, silver body, peaceful nature, and schooling instincts. Black Ear Pangasius grows large—up to 20–24 inches in captivity—making it essential to have a sizable tank to accommodate its active swimming habits.

Why Choose a Black Ear Pangasius?

  • Striking Appearance: The unique black ear spot gives this fish a sleek, stylish look that stands out in large tanks.

  • Social Swimmer: They thrive in groups of 3 or more, exhibiting peaceful schooling behavior that adds life and motion to your aquarium.

  • Hardy and Adaptable: While they prefer stable water conditions, Black Ear Pangasius are generally resilient and can adapt to a variety of setups.

  • Engaging Personality: These fish are curious and often interact with their environment and even their caretakers.

Tank Requirements for Black Ear Pangasius

Because these catfish grow quite large and are active swimmers, they require a spacious tank and good filtration:

  • Tank Size: Minimum of 180 gallons (681 liters), ideally larger for adult fish or groups.

  • Water Temperature: Maintain between 72–79°F (22–26°C).

  • pH Level: Prefer slightly acidic to neutral water, 6.5–7.5.

  • Substrate & Decor: Fine gravel or sand substrate works well. Provide open swimming areas along with some shaded spots using driftwood or large plants.

  • Filtration: Strong filtration is necessary to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated due to their size and activity.

Diet and Feeding

Black Ear Pangasius are omnivorous and not picky eaters:

  • Feed a varied diet including high-quality sinking pellets or wafers, supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped earthworms.

  • Occasional vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or zucchini is appreciated.

  • Feed 1-2 times daily, only what they can consume in a few minutes to maintain water quality.

Behavior and Tankmates

  • Black Ear Pangasius are peaceful and do well with other large, non-aggressive fish.

  • Avoid small fish species, as they may be eaten as the pangasius grows.

  • Best kept in groups of 3 or more to encourage natural schooling behavior and reduce stress.

  • They can be a bit shy when first introduced but quickly adapt to tank life and may even recognize their keeper.

Challenges to Consider

  • Size: Their large adult size means they are unsuitable for small tanks.

  • Jumping: Like many Pangasiids, they are capable jumpers; a secure lid is essential.

  • Space Needs: Requires plenty of swimming room and clean water, so routine maintenance is important.

Conclusion

The Black Ear Pangasius Catfish is a spectacular choice for aquarists with large freshwater setups looking to add a peaceful, social, and striking species to their community tanks. With proper care, a spacious environment, and good company, these fish will thrive and provide endless fascination.

If you have the space and dedication, the Black Ear Pangasius can be a stunning, graceful, and interactive centerpiece for your aquatic collection.

Interested in adding Black Ear Pangasius Catfish to your aquarium? Make sure your tank meets the size and care requirements, and enjoy watching these elegant swimmers come to life!