Bumblebee Catfish (Microglanis iheringi): The Striped Bottom-Dweller with Personality

The Bumblebee Catfish, also known as the South American Bumblebee Cat, is a small, peaceful, and strikingly patterned bottom-dweller that earns its name from the bold black and yellow striping along its body. This charming nocturnal species is ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists looking for a low-maintenance scavenger that won’t outgrow the tank.

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? Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Microglanis iheringi

• Common Name: Bumblebee Catfish

• Origin: South America (Amazon & Orinoco River basins)

• Size: 2.5" – 3.5" (6–9 cm)

• Lifespan: 4–6 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, bottom-dwelling

• Tank Size: 20+ gallons

• Activity: Mostly nocturnal

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? Why Keep a Bumblebee Catfish?

✅ 1. Perfect for Community Tanks

Bumblebee Catfish are non-aggressive and do well with most peaceful species. Their reclusive nature means they spend much of the day tucked away in a cave, only emerging at dusk or night to scavenge.

✅ 2. Beautiful Coloring

Their alternating black and yellow banding makes them a striking visual contrast to more common tankmates. Every individual displays slightly different patterns.

✅ 3. Compact Size

Unlike many catfish, they stay small, making them suitable for moderate to small aquariums without worrying about overgrowth or heavy bioload.

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? Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm — very sensitive to water quality

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?️ Aquarium Setup

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spaces like caves, driftwood, and PVC tubes

• Lighting: Dim or subdued to match their nocturnal habits

• Tank Mates: Tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, Corydoras, small plecos

?️ They love to wedge themselves into tight hiding spots during the day — give them places to feel secure.

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?️ Feeding

These are omnivorous scavengers. While they’ll pick up leftovers, targeted feeding ensures better health.

• Staples: Sinking carnivore pellets, catfish wafers

• Treats: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms

• Vegetables: Occasionally blanched zucchini or spinach

? Not ideal for tanks with tiny shrimp — they may snack on shrimp or fry if the opportunity arises.

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⚠️ Care Notes

• Shy Nature: May rarely be seen during the day unless the tank is very peaceful and dimly lit

• Jumping Risk: They can jump when startled — use a secure lid

• Do Not Confuse: Often mistaken for the Asian Bumblebee Catfish (Pseudomystus spp.), which is more aggressive and grows much larger

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? Fun Fact

Microglanis iheringi can produce slight "croaking" sounds — a form of communication when distressed or during handling!

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