Kuhli Catfish
Kuhli Catfish (Amphilius platychir) is a rarely available West African mountain stream catfish with a slender, loach-like body, mottled brown and cream patterning, and an active, darting personality that sets it apart from most catfish. The common name 'Kuhli' reflects its superficial resemblance to the Asian Kuhli Loach in body shape — though the two are entirely unrelated. It belongs to the family Amphiliidae, the African hillstream catfish.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Sinking Wafers make an excellent staple. Supplement with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms and Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp 2–3 times per week. Well-oxygenated water with good flow and rocky substrate are important — this is a hillstream species that thrives with current.
Native to fast-flowing, rocky rivers and streams across West and Central Africa — the Congo basin, Cameroon, and surrounding regions. Amphilius platychir inhabits clear, well-oxygenated hillstream environments with rocky substrate and leaf litter. Genuinely uncommon in the aquarium trade and rarely available at this quality.
Keep in groups of three or more — more active and visible in company. Compatible with other hillstream inhabitants, medium-sized peaceful community fish, and active species from similar environments. Avoid sluggish, warm-water fish that would not thrive in the well-oxygenated conditions this species needs.
A genuine rarity in the hobby — an African hillstream catfish with a loach-like personality and an active, entertaining temperament unusual for a catfish. For aquarists building an African river biotope or seeking unusual catfish beyond the standard options, this is a rewarding and conversation-worthy fish.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — active community fish |
| Typical Adult Size | 3.5 inches (9.2 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 3 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 72–79°F (22–26°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 4–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 2–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Sinking Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Congo basin, Cameroon, and West/Central Africa (hillstream habitats) |
| Notes | Family Amphiliidae — African hillstream catfish. Common name from resemblance to Asian Kuhli Loach (unrelated). Rare in trade. Good flow and oxygenation important. Active personality unusual for a catfish. |
