New catfish lover

[lissaspence]

Hi Everyone! My name is Melissa and I'm relativly new at this hobby but I'm already hooked for life! I started out with a small 25 Gal and was sold 4in Tiger Shovelnose catfish. Once getting it home and looking it up online I freaked out because I was concered I wouldn't be able to care for it(I learned my lesson - research first). I've since gotten a 130 gal and he's grown to about 12-13in. His tank mates are a 7in domino snyo and a 9in giant gourami. I'm constantly amazed at how fast they grow. We have now added the following stipulation to our house shopping agenda - a back yard wich is big enough for us to add a pond to. I think of my fish as pets and can't bear to part with them (no matter how big they get). I don't know what it is about them but I'm always attracted to catfish. They are so cool! I'm forever entranced by the varity out there. I can't wait to expand my collection further.

[Dave Rinaldo]

Hi Melissa and welcome to Planet Catfish!

[MatsP]

Welcome to Planet Catfish.

In Illinois, I'd say you need to have an INDOOR pond for a Shovelnose (well, you need to heat it to keep the temperature above 75'F, which of course if you have big enough heating system, but it will cost you a small fortune even WITH it being in small house).

--
Mats

[lissaspence]

That was another idea my very large list of fishy dreams(the indoor pond). I've seen some really intresting pics of some on other forums. I'm sure I will work something out. Put a pool in my basement maybe? LOL