Striped Raphael Catfish and Similar Species
Platydoras armatulus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Striped Raphael Catfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Black Lined Raphael Catfish
Platydoras costatus
Key differences: Historically, Platydoras costatus was the widely recognized scientific name for the Striped Raphael Catfish. However, recent taxonomic revisions (e.g., by Piorski et al., 2008) have revalidated Platydoras armatulus as the correct name for the species commonly seen in the aquarium trade, with P. costatus now referring to a distinct, less commonly encountered species. The primary morphological difference, though subtle, lies in the number of lateral scutes and the extent of the white stripe on the caudal fin. P. armatulus typically has 28-31 lateral scutes and the white stripe extends onto the caudal fin, while P. costatus (sensu stricto) has fewer scutes (24-27) and the stripe may not extend as far.
Spotted Raphael Catfish
Agamyxis pectinifrons
Key differences: While also an armored catfish from the Doradidae family, Agamyxis pectinifrons is easily distinguished by its coloration. Instead of longitudinal stripes, it has a dark body covered in numerous small, light-colored spots. Its body shape is also generally more compressed laterally compared to the more cylindrical Platydoras armatulus.
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