Bumble Bee Catfish
Bumble Bee Catfish (Microglanis sp.) is a small and attractively patterned South American catfish with a bold pattern of yellow-orange and dark brown to black bands — the bumblebee coloration that gives this fish its name. The square skull and large mouth characteristic of the Microglanis genus give it a somewhat front-heavy, bulldog-like profile. A secretive, nocturnal catfish with genuine personality, often observed peering out from cave entrances.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets and Hikari Sinking Wafers make good staples — feed after lights out. Supplement with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms 2–3 times per week. Provide caves sized just right for the fish — tight-fitting PVC elbows or coconut shells are ideal. Small fish that fit in its mouth will be eaten.
The Microglanis genus contains numerous similar species across South America, and the trade fish is often not precisely identified to species level. Most specimens come from Colombia and surrounding areas — slow-moving streams and rivers with leaf litter, woody debris, and abundant hiding spots. Nocturnal and secretive in nature.
Keep singly or in small groups with adequate caves — one cave per fish minimum. The Bumble Bee Catfish is generally peaceful with fish too large to eat but has a surprisingly large mouth — any fish smaller than half its body length is potential prey, particularly at night. Choose tankmates accordingly.
A charming and reliably interesting catfish that is active enough to provide entertainment — it regularly peers out from its cave entrance, repositions itself, and emerges more boldly as it becomes accustomed to the aquarium. One of the more personable small catfish available.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful with large fish — predatory toward nano fish |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Singly or small group — 1 cave per fish |
| Ideal Temp | 72–79°F (22–26°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 | Colombia and surrounding South America (exact species often unconfirmed) |
| Notes | Microglanis sp. — exact species often not identified to species level in trade. Large mouth for its size — predatory toward small fish. Nocturnal. One tight-fitting cave per fish essential. |
