Bumble Bee Catfish

Overview

• Scientific Name: Microglanis iheringi
• Common Names: Bumblebee Catfish, Bumblebee Pleco, Bumblebee Catfish Pleco
• Family: Pimelodidae
• Origin: Native to the rivers of South America, primarily found in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Bumblebee Catfish typically grow to about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) in length.
• Coloration: They are recognized for their distinctive black and yellow or gold banding, resembling a bumblebee. The pattern can vary among individuals.
• Body Shape: They have a slender, elongated body with a flat head and whisker-like barbels that help them sense their environment.

Behavior

• Temperament: Bumblebee Catfish are generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially as they mature. They are known to be shy and may hide when feeling threatened.
• Activity Level: They are primarily nocturnal, becoming more active during the night when they hunt for food.
• Sociability: They can be kept alone or in small groups, but be cautious with tank mates, as larger or more aggressive fish might harass them.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Bumblebee Catfish, with larger tanks preferred for multiple fish or tank mates.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5 to 7.5
  • Water Hardness: 5 to 20 dGH
• Substrate: A soft substrate such as sand or fine gravel is ideal to protect their sensitive barbels.
• Tank Setup: Provide plenty of hiding spots with rocks, caves, and driftwood. Dense vegetation can also help create a more natural environment.
• Filtration: A good filtration system is important to maintain water quality, as they can produce a significant amount of waste.

Diet

• Feeding: Bumblebee Catfish are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. Their diet can include:
  • High-quality pellets or flakes formulated for carnivorous catfish.
  • Frozen or live foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and earthworms.
  • Vegetable matter, including blanched zucchini or spinach.
• Feeding Frequency: They should be fed once or twice a day, providing only what they can consume in a few minutes.

Reproduction

• Breeding: Breeding Bumblebee Catfish in captivity can be challenging. They require specific environmental conditions to spawn.
• Eggs: If breeding occurs, females will lay eggs, which are typically adhesive and attach to surfaces in the tank.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Bumblebee Catfish can be housed with various community fish, including:
  • Tetras
  • Rasboras
  • Peaceful cichlids
• Avoid Aggressive Species: They should not be kept with aggressive or very large fish, as they may be bullied or harassed.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: In a well-maintained aquarium, Bumblebee Catfish can live for 5 to 10 years.

Care Requirements

• Water Quality: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are essential to maintain good water quality and reduce stress.
• Tank Maintenance: Monitor water parameters and perform routine maintenance to ensure a clean environment.
• Behavior Monitoring: Keep an eye on their interactions with tank mates to ensure compatibility and reduce stress.

Interesting Facts

1. Camouflage Ability: The Bumblebee Catfish can change its color intensity to blend in with its surroundings, aiding in its natural camouflage.
2. Social Creatures: They can be social and benefit from being kept in small groups, but provide enough space and hiding spots to minimize territorial disputes.
3. Unique Feeding Habits: Bumblebee Catfish use their barbels to locate food on the substrate, showcasing their adapted feeding behavior.