Irid

Overview

• Scientific Name: Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
• Common Names: Iridescent Shark, Siamese Catfish, Iridescent Catfish
• Family: Pangasiidae
• Origin: Native to the Mekong River basin in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Iridescent Sharks can grow quite large, reaching lengths of up to 3 feet (90 cm) in captivity, and even larger in the wild.
• Coloration: They have a distinctive silver-gray body with a bluish sheen, and their fins are often tinted with a reddish or yellowish hue. The coloration gives them their "iridescent" name.
• Body Shape: These fish have a streamlined, elongated body and a broad head with large, prominent eyes.
• Barbels: They have two pairs of barbels (whisker-like structures) on their upper jaw, which they use for sensing food in their environment.

Behavior

• Temperament: Iridescent Sharks are generally peaceful and can be kept in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. However, they may become territorial as they grow larger.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers, preferring to stay in the mid to upper levels of the tank. They enjoy swimming and require ample space to roam.
• Sociability: While they can be kept alone, they often thrive in groups, as they are social creatures that enjoy the company of their own kind.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Due to their potential size, a minimum of 150 gallons is recommended for a single Iridescent Shark, with larger tanks preferred for multiple fish.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5 to 7.5
  • Water Hardness: 5 to 15 dGH
• Substrate: A soft substrate like sand or fine gravel is ideal to prevent injury to their sensitive barbels.
• Tank Setup: Provide a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots created by rocks, driftwood, and plants. A well-planted aquarium can offer shelter and a more natural environment.
• Filtration: A strong filtration system is essential, as Iridescent Sharks produce a significant amount of waste.

Diet

• Feeding: Iridescent Sharks are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. Their diet can include:
  • High-quality pellets or flakes designed for catfish.
  • Frozen or live foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
  • Vegetable matter, including blanched zucchini, peas, or spirulina-based foods.
• Feeding Frequency: They should be fed once or twice a day, with portions that can be consumed in a few minutes to avoid overfeeding.

Reproduction

• Breeding: Breeding Iridescent Sharks in captivity is challenging, as they require specific environmental conditions. They are often bred commercially in fish farms.
• Eggs: They are known to be egg-layers, with females laying thousands of eggs in open water.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Iridescent Sharks can be kept with various community fish, such as:
  • Tetras
  • Gouramis
  • Larger barbs
  • Other peaceful catfish
• Avoid Aggressive Species: Keep them away from aggressive or fin-nipping species, as they can be bullied by larger, more territorial fish.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: In a well-maintained aquarium, Iridescent Sharks can live for 5 to 15 years, although they can live longer under optimal conditions.

Care Requirements

• Water Quality: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are essential to maintain good water quality and prevent ammonia buildup.
• Tank Maintenance: Monitor water parameters closely and perform regular maintenance to keep the environment clean.
• Growth Rate: They grow rapidly in their first few years, so ensure the tank is large enough to accommodate their growth.

Interesting Facts

1. Not a True Shark: Despite their name, Iridescent Sharks are not sharks; they are freshwater catfish with a resemblance to shark species due to their body shape and dorsal fin.
2. Adaptability: They are quite adaptable to different environments, which is one reason they are farmed extensively.
3. Commercial Importance: Iridescent Sharks are widely farmed for the aquarium trade and as a food source in some Asian countries.