Add a Buzz to Your Tank with Bumblebee Catfish

If you’re looking to add a little excitement and charm to your aquarium, the Bumblebee Catfish might be the perfect fit. These little fish are easy to care for and entertaining to watch because of their striking stripes and reticent nature. Let’s explore the world of the Bumblebee Catfish and discover why they are so popular among fish enthusiasts worldwide.

What Is a Bumblebee Catfish?

The Bumblebee Catfish (scientific name: Microglanis iheringi) is a small freshwater fish known for its black and yellow stripes, just like a real bumblebee. These fish come from South America, mainly the rivers of Venezuela and Colombia. They belong to the catfish family and are bottom dwellers, meaning they like to hang out near the bottom of the tank.

Some people also confuse them with the Asian Bumblebee Catfish (Pseudomystus siamensis), which is slightly different and comes from Southeast Asia. Both types are similar in looks and behavior, but this article focuses on the South American species.

Why Choose a Bumblebee Catfish?

Here are a few reasons why these fish are a popular choice:

• Unique Appearance: Their black and yellow stripes make them stand out in any aquarium.
  
• Peaceful Nature: They are generally calm and can live with other peaceful fish.
  
• Great Cleaners: They help keep the tank clean by eating leftover food and other debris.
  
• Easy to Care For: They don’t need complicated care, making them great for beginners.
  

Natural Habitat

Bumblebee catfish inhabit sluggish rivers and streams in the wild.. These waters usually have soft sand, rocks, and lots of hiding places like roots and plants. The water is warm and slightly acidic. If you want your Bumblebee Catfish to feel at home, try to copy this environment in your aquarium.

Tank Setup for Bumblebee Catfish

Even though Bumblebee Catfish are small (usually around 3 inches long), they still need a proper home. Here’s what you need to know:

Tank Size

• Minimum tank size: 20 gallons
  
• Bigger is better, especially if you have other fish
  

Water Conditions

• Temperature: 70–77°F (21–25°C)
  
• pH level: 6.5 to 7.5
  
• Water hardness: Soft to medium (2–15 dGH)
  

Use test kits to check the pH and ammonia levels, and a filter to keep the water pure.

Substrate and Décor

• Use soft sand or fine gravel at the bottom
  
• Add rocks, caves, driftwood, and plants to provide hiding spots
  
• Avoid sharp decorations, as they may injure the fish
  

Feeding Your Bumblebee Catfish

Bumblebee Catfish are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and plants. They eat leftovers, insects, and worms in the wild. They’ll eat in your tank:

What to Feed Them

• Sinking pellets or wafers
  
• Bloodworms
  
• Brine shrimp
  
• Frozen or live foods
  
• Vegetable matter (like blanched spinach or zucchini)
  

Feed them once or twice a day. Make sure food reaches the bottom, as they rarely swim to the top to eat.

Behavior and Tank Mates

Shy but Active at Night

Bumblebee Catfish are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, you might not see them much, as they like to hide. But when the lights go out, they start exploring!

Peaceful but Territorial

They get along well with most other fish, but they may chase away fish that come too close to their favorite hiding spots.

Good Tank Mates

• Tetras
  
• Corydoras
  
• Mollies
  
• Swordtails
  
• Small Gouramis
  

Avoid These Tank Mates

• Aggressive fish (like Cichlids)
  
• Very tiny fish that may get eaten
  
• Large fish that may eat the catfish
  

Breeding Bumblebee Catfish

Breeding Bumblebee Catfish in home aquariums is very rare and difficult. Most of the fish sold in pet stores are caught in the wild or bred in large fish farms under special conditions.

To attempt breeding them, you will require:

• A separate breeding tank
  
• Lower lighting
  
• Special feeding (live foods)
  
• Warm, soft water
  

Even then, there’s no guarantee. If you’re new to fishkeeping, it’s best to enjoy them as beautiful pets rather than try to breed them.

Common Health Issues

Like all fish, Bumblebee Catfish can get sick if their environment isn’t right. Here are a few problems to watch for:

1. Ich (White Spot Disease)

• Tiny white spots on the body and fins
  
• Fish may rub against objects
  

Treatment: Raise the water temperature slowly and use Ich medication

2. Fin Rot

• Fins look ragged or torn
  
• Caused by poor water quality or injury
  

Treatment: Improve water conditions, use antibacterial medication

3. Parasites

• Fish may look skinny or have trouble swimming
  

Treatment: Use anti-parasitic treatments and quarantine new fish

How to Prevent Illness

• Regular water changes (25 percent each week) will help keep the water clean.
  
• Use a filter
  
• Don’t overcrowd the tank
  
• Before putting new fish in your aquarium, quarantine them.
  

How Long Do They Live?

Bumblebee Catfish can live 4 to 6 years or more with proper care. Some even live up to 8 years in ideal conditions. Make sure to give them a stress-free environment, clean water, and good food to keep them healthy and happy.

Fun Facts About Bumblebee Catfish

• They make little clicking sounds when scared or excited
  
• They are mostly active at night, so use a moonlight or blue LED to watch them
  
• They can change color slightly based on mood or stress
  
• In order to conceal, they occasionally bury themselves in soft sand.
  

Are Bumblebee Catfish Right for You?

If you love fish that are a bit mysterious, quiet, and helpful, then Bumblebee Catfish are a great choice. They won’t demand much attention, but they’ll reward you with hours of calm observation and tank-cleaning skills. They’re perfect for community tanks and peaceful setups.

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do Bumblebee Catfish eat other fish?

Sometimes they may eat very small fish or baby fish, especially at night. It’s best not to keep them with tiny fish like newborn guppies or fry.

2. Can I keep more than one Bumblebee Catfish together?

Yes, but make sure the tank is big enough. They may fight over hiding spots, so add plenty of caves and decorations.

3. How often should I feed my Bumblebee Catfish?

Once or twice a day is enough. Feed them when the tank lights are dim or off, since they are most active at night.

4. Will Bumblebee Catfish clean my tank?

They help by eating leftover food, but they don’t replace a proper filter or regular cleaning. Think of them as part of your clean-up crew!

5. Do Bumblebee Catfish need a heater?

Yes, they come from warm climates and need water temperatures between 70–77°F (21–25°C). A heater helps keep the water steady and warm.

Final Words

The Bumblebee Catfish is a small fish with big personality and beautiful stripes. It’s easy to care for, peaceful, and adds a unique touch to any freshwater aquarium. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fish keeper, this little catfish can be a great addition to your tank. So go ahead—add a buzz to your tank and enjoy the charm of the Bumblebee Catfish!