Tiger Stripe Bee Catfish
Tiger Stripe Bee Catfish (Pseudomystus heokhuii) is a boldly patterned Southeast Asian catfish with vivid alternating yellow and dark brown to black tiger-stripe banding across the entire body. A member of the bagrid family, it has the robust, muscular build and whiskered face typical of the group. Active and bold compared to many catfish, it is a fish that is genuinely visible and entertaining in a well-structured aquarium.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets and Hikari Sinking Wafers make excellent staples — feed after lights out when most active. Supplement with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms 2–3 times per week. Provide caves and driftwood. Note the large mouth — small fish will be eaten.
Native to rivers and streams of Southeast Asia — Thailand, Malaysia, and surrounding regions. Inhabits moderately flowing streams with rocky substrate, submerged wood, and leaf litter. The bold tiger-stripe pattern provides camouflage among leaf litter in the dappled light of forest stream habitats.
Keep singly or in small groups in adequately sized aquariums with caves and structure. The Tiger Stripe Bee Catfish reaches up to 6 inches and should be kept with fish of comparable size. The large mouth is capable of taking smaller fish — neon-tetra-sized fish are not safe tankmates.
A striking and underappreciated catfish with genuine visual impact. The bold tiger banding is vivid and clearly visible, and the fish is active enough to provide regular entertainment. A good choice for aquarists wanting a characterful medium-sized catfish from Southeast Asia.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful with large fish — predatory toward small fish |
| Typical Adult Size | 6.0 inches (15 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Singly or 2–3 in larger tanks |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets; Hikari Sinking Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms |
| Origin | Thailand, Malaysia, and surrounding Southeast Asia |
| Notes | Bold tiger-stripe banding. Large mouth — predatory toward small fish. Active and visible compared to many catfish. Caves and driftwood important. Bagrid family. |
