The Black Banded Cat Shark is a favored choice for home aquariums due to its manageable size and relatively calm nature. This species typically doesn't exceed 40 inches, making it suitable for aquarium life.
To accommodate a Black Banded Cat Shark, a tank of at least 300 gallons is essential. The aquarium should have rounded edges to prevent injury, and a soft sand substrate is necessary for this bottom-dwelling shark.
These sharks are not ideal for reef tanks because of their size and tendency to topple coral. Additionally, they will consume any invertebrates, which are crucial for maintaining a reef environment.
The name Black Banded Cat Shark comes from its whisker-like barbels. It features a slender brown body with distinct black bands. A diet rich in meaty foods is crucial, and live feeder shrimp may be needed initially. Over time, they can be transitioned to high-quality seafood such as clams, scallops, shrimp, and marine fish chunks.
Tiny: Up to 6", Small: Over 6-7", Medium: Over 8.5-10", Small/Medium: Over 7-8.5", Medium/Large: Over 10-12", Large: Over 12-14", Extra Large: Over 14-18", Show Size: Over 22-26", Extra Extra Large: Over 18-22", Jumbo: Over 26"