These are a fun fish to watch as they have a curious nature. Even though the Striped Raphael Catfish or Chocolate Catfish are nocturnal, once they are comfortable in their environment they will often spend many daytime hours exploring the aquarium.

They like to burrow in the soft river bottom so be sure to provide a corner of fine gravel or sand. They also like some plant cover and hiding places like the hollows of roots. The Striped Raphael Catfish or Chocolate Catfish will not harm plants, though some of the smaller leaved plants may get a dusting when this catfish burrows into the sand.