Why is the typical 55-gallon tank frequently criticized for housing a small group of Pictus Catfish?
Answer
Its typical footprint is too narrow, often only 12 inches wide
The primary criticism leveled against a standard 55-gallon tank for housing multiple Pictus Catfish centers entirely on its horizontal dimensions, not its water volume. This standard size often features a footprint that is too narrow, frequently measuring only 12 inches in width. For an active, bottom-dwelling fish that grows potentially large, this narrow floor space severely limits the fish’s ability to swim freely without continuous contact with the tank boundaries or decorations. For even a small group of four or five, this confined swimming area leads to high stress levels.
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