Bumblebee Catfish (Microglanis iheringi) - Live Fish

Bumblebee Catfish (Microglanis iheringi)
Tiny, bold, and beautifully striped — nature’s little tank cleaner.

The Bumblebee Catfish is a charming and compact freshwater bottom-dweller, named for its vibrant black and yellow banding that resembles a bumblebee. Native to South America, this peaceful nocturnal catfish is a fantastic addition to community tanks, offering both visual appeal and natural cleanup as it scavenges the tank floor.

🔍 Quick Facts:

• Common Name: Bumblebee Catfish

• Scientific Name: Microglanis iheringi

• Origin: South America (primarily Colombia & Venezuela)

• Size: Up to 3 inches

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, nocturnal

• Lifespan: 4–6 years

• Care Level: Easy

🏡 Ideal Aquarium Setup:

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)

• pH Range: 6.5–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Environment Notes:

  • Provide plenty of hiding spots (caves, driftwood, plants)

  • Subdued lighting or shaded areas preferred

  • Peaceful tankmates recommended — avoid overly boisterous or predatory fish

🍽️ Diet:
Omnivorous scavenger

• Sinks to the bottom for:

  • Sinking pellets

  • Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp

  • Leftover flake or wafer food

• Supplement with occasional live food for enrichment

🐣 Breeding Info:

• Rarely bred in home aquariums

• Requires soft, acidic water and specific triggers (mimicking rainy season)

• Little documentation on fry care; breeding is best left to advanced hobbyists

🌟 Fun Facts:

• Despite the name, it's not the same as the Asian Bumblebee Catfish — this species is South American and smaller

• Mostly nocturnal but can become active during the day once settled

• Often hides all day and emerges at night to forage

• Excellent for helping keep the substrate clean of uneaten food

💡 Pro Tip:
Use rounded gravel or soft sand to protect their delicate barbels while foraging.

🐟 Add a splash of pattern and personality to your tank with the Bumblebee Catfish — a peaceful, low-maintenance scavenger with unmistakable charm.

🛒 Add to cart and bring home a natural bottom-cleaner with bold stripes today!