Care
The Four-lined Pimelodus is reported from the lower reaches of large rivers, where they use the shelter of waterlogged wood and other debris.
This is a very active species that reaches a fair size, so does require a spacious aquarium from the outset. The tank should have a soft sandy substrate in order to protect the long sensory barbels, and should be decorated with a good amount of bogwood, rocks and robust plants to provide shady areas and visual barriers, leaving a large swimming space in the central portion of the aquarium for these fish to patrol. Filtration should be efficient with moderate water movement and a decent level of oxygenation. As with other riverine species, frequent partial water changes are an absolute must to prevent the build up of nitrate. These fish are most comfortable in aquaria with subdued lighting, and a lower light level will provide you with time in the evening to watch the nocturnal antics of this catfish. Four-lined pims make wonderful lively additions to roomy tanks with communities of medium-large sized peaceful species. They can be kept singly but are best housed in groups of 5 or more because of their gregarious nature. Do not house with small fish as these nocturnal catfish will pick them off overnight. Slow-moving species such as Angelfish should also be avoided, as the Ornate Pims will unsettle them with their active nature, particularly at meal times when they go into a feeding frenzy. Similarly, timid species may be bothered by the catfish investigating them with their long barbels overnight. Ensure the tank has tight fitting coverslides, as these fish are expert jumpers. Please be aware that tanks which are too small for this active species will stunt their growth and they will also suffer as a result of lack of exercise. Be sure to provide these fast-swimming fish with the space they deserve. Much care must be taken when handing Pims as they possess very sharp spines that can pierce bags (or skin!) and can become entangled in netting.
Typically, Four-lined pims arrive having been shipped as Pimelodus pictus and a few similar species may be encountered. Juvenile markings start with defined stripes that break up into a more spotted pattern as the fish mature.
Feeding
Sinking catfish pellets/tablets/granules, frozen foods such as bloodworm, white mosquito larvae, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp etc. Wild specimens have been found with fruit and seeds in their stomach, so it may be worth offering a small quantity of items such as grapes and chopped pear etc to larger individuals. These are greedy fish, so take care not to overfeed.
Breeding
The Four-lined Pim has not been bred in the home aquarium.
