Bumblebee Catfish (South American)

The Bumblebee Catfish (South American), scientifically known as Microglanis iheringi, belongs to the Catfish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 7.5 cm and have a depressed body shape with a slow growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.

To thrive, the Bumblebee Catfish (South American) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.

Due to its specialist needs, the Bumblebee Catfish (South American) is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. The Bumblebee Catfish (South American) is typically available in one standard form.

When setting up an aquarium for the Bumblebee Catfish (South American), a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement, and leaf litter or blackwater tannins to replicate their natural soft-water habitat.

Classified as mostly peaceful, the Bumblebee Catfish (South American) is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, and boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.

Bumblebee Catfish (South American) is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide someone who understands its individual space requirements. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially driftwood.

The most common mistake is buying Bumblebee Catfish (South American) for looks first and only later discovering how its adult size, behavior, or bioload changes the whole tank plan. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.

The Bumblebee Catfish (South American) is a predatory species that will readily consume small fish, so nano or bite-sized tankmates should be avoided, will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups, will eat fry, so breeding efforts in the same tank are unlikely to succeed, and is primarily active at dusk and dawn, so offering food shortly after lights-off ensures it receives adequate nutrition.