Agamyxis is a genus of catfishes (order Siluriformes) of the family Doradidae. It contains two species, A. albomaculatus and A. pectinifrons. A. pectinifrons is a popular aquarium fish and is often sold as the Spotted Raphael Catfish or Spotted Talking Catfish. The Spotted Raphael is also called a “talking catfish” because of its ability to make buzzing and clicking sounds by rubbing its spines together. As its name suggests, this catfish is covered with spots. The spots are white and the rest of the body is black. Its body is covered with thick plates that act as armor. It is recommended, due to the spines on this fish which would tear up a conventional net, that it is preferable to catch and move these fish by hand or with a glass. They are prone to sticking out their side spines in a very rigid manner when they are stressed.
Both species reach about 15 centimetres (6 inches). These species both appear very similar; A. albomaculatus might be slimmer, have more spots and a different pattern on its caudal fin.

This fish is peaceful and does well in a community aquarium. Being nocturnal, the Spotted Raphael Catfish or Talking Catfish is a bit shy and will look for a nice comfortable hiding place during the day.
The Spotted Raphael Catfish, like the Striped Raphael, likes to burrow in the soft river bottom so provide a corner of fine gravel or sand.  During the day they need a dark refuge to hide in.They will like some plant cover and hiding places like the hollows of roots. They will not harm plants.

Recommended diet
It is a scavenger and will eat most foods that it finds at the bottom of the tank. It is a peaceful fish and can be kept with most community species. It is also tolerant of its own kind and can be kept in small groups or singly.

Due to its protective “armor”, the Spotted Raphael Catfish can also be kept with small to medium sized more aggressive fish including many types of cichlids. Despite its passive nature, the spotted Raphael may eat very tiny fish, such as young fry.

Breeding Information: No known way to breed in captivity.

Sexing Information: No known way to sex visually.

Origin: South American Rivers (A. albomaculatus is distribued in the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela while A. pectinifrons is found in the Amazon River basin).

Tank and water:
Temperature: 68°F - 78°F (20°C - 26°C)
Water Hardness: 1° to 20° dH
pH: 5.8 - 7.6
Minimum Tank Size: 29 gallons

Adult Size:  6 inches (16 cm)
Average Lifespan: 9 years

Note: These catfish are able to make sounds by grinding their pectoral fin bones against their shoulder bones.