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Introduction

Ageneiosus magoi, also known as Slopehead Catfish, is a South American catfish from the family Auchenipteridae. Its slender body, sloping head and mainly nocturnal habits make it an unusual choice for a large regional aquarium. Associated with the Rio Apure, it comes from a river network rich in catfish, predators and bottom-dwelling species. This species remains uncommon in the aquarium trade, making it attractive to aquarists looking for unusual fish. The specimen offered is wild collected and is available exclusively from Ton.Fish in Canada.

General species description

Ageneiosus magoi is a catfish belonging to the family Auchenipteridae, a group of South American siluriforms often adapted to warm rivers and flowing water. Its English name, Slopehead Catfish, refers directly to its strongly sloping head. It is a medium to large aquarium fish that requires a spacious, well-filtered setup with plenty of cover. Its activity is mainly crepuscular and nocturnal; during the day, it may remain under a root or in a shaded area. Its trade rarity is rated 2 out of 3, meaning it is uncommon. The offered specimen is wild caught.

Geographic origin and habitat

The reference information associates Ageneiosus magoi with the Rio Apure, in the Orinoco basin, while the supplied country reference is Brazil. Its natural environment consists of large tropical waterways with flowing sections, deeper pools and vegetated margins. The bottom is generally made up of sand, mud and plant debris, with submerged branches providing shelter. Well-oxygenated water, strong filtration and moderate current are suitable for its maintenance. Water depth varies seasonally, but the species is mainly associated with areas deep enough to provide shelter and stable temperatures.

Specific locality and local name

The reference locality supplied for Ageneiosus magoi is the Rio Apure, an important tributary within the Orinoco basin. In the international aquarium trade, Slopehead Catfish is the most useful identifying name. The general term “bagre” may be used in Spanish-speaking regions for a catfish, but it is not an exclusive vernacular name for this species. To avoid confusion, use the full scientific name and retain the Rio Apure locality information with fish from this wild strain.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Ageneiosus magoi has an elongated body, a flattened head and a dorsal profile that slopes noticeably toward the snout, which explains the name Slopehead Catfish. Its coloration is generally subdued, with brownish or greyish tones suited to river bottoms. As with several catfish in its group, the pectoral and dorsal fins have spiny rays that require careful handling. Sensory barbels and the lateral line help it move through dark or turbid water. Maximum adult size is about 30 cm; wild individuals may show stronger natural coloration.

General diet

The diet of Ageneiosus magoi is mainly carnivorous and opportunistic. In an aquarium, it accepts quality sinking foods, including catfish pellets, pieces of shrimp, mussel or fish, as well as worms and other suitable prey. Feed this species after the aquarium lights go out, when it becomes more active. Meals should be varied but controlled to prevent leftovers and water-quality problems. Small fish may be treated as prey if they can be swallowed, so tankmates must be selected carefully. Avoid an overly fatty diet and remove uneaten food promptly.

Essential data

• River of origin: Rio Apure
• Local name used: Slopehead Catfish
• Origin of the scientific name: Ageneiosus is a Greek-derived genus name associated with the idea of being without a beard or hair; magoi is the specific epithet.
• Etymology of the full name: Ageneiosus refers to the absence of a beard; magoi is the specific name assigned to the species.
• Common/vernacular names: Slopehead Catfish
• Family: Auchenipteridae
• Subfamily: Auchenipterinae
• Name pronunciation: a-jee-NAY-oh-sus - MAY-goy
• Discovery: Carl J. Ferraris Jr. and Richard P. Vari, 1999
• Maximum adult size: about 30 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH 6.5 to 7.5
• Waterway appearance and surrounding vegetation: large tropical river, vegetated margins, submerged branches and plant debris
• Typical tankmates: Cichla orinocensis, Corydoras venezuelanus, Cephalosilurus apurensis, Pseudorinelepis sp. L-152 Rio Apure
• Temperament and behavior: generally peaceful with appropriately sized tankmates; crepuscular and nocturnal
• Water depth: deeper sections and sheltered areas of large rivers
• Sexual dimorphism: subtle external differences; difficult to determine in juveniles
• Bottom structure and flow: sand, mud and debris; moderate to strong flow with quieter sections

In your aquarium

To keep Ageneiosus magoi successfully, provide a large aquarium with robust filtration, warm stable water and several shelters made from wood or rock. Moderate lighting will encourage natural behaviour. Offer food in the evening and remove leftovers quickly. Avoid tankmates small enough to be swallowed and use a suitable net because of the fin spines. Since this is a wild-collected and uncommon species, careful acclimation and a proper quarantine period are especially important.