Have you ever heard of this vibrant-colored marine species called Bumblebee Catfish? It is one of the most exotic species and is kept as a pet by many United States households. You will find two types of bumblebee catfish: Asian and South American. If it has a square spot at the base, then it is most likely to be a South American bumblebee catfish, which is also the most common one. Whereas, if it has a triangle spot, then you have an Asian type. This species rarely comes out during the day and is popular for being a nocturnal catfish.
Bumblebee Catfish are more tolerant of living alone than of living in a group. A small group with other species would also be suitable for them. If you are planning to keep this striking species as a pet,. You should know that the more bushes and plants you have in an aquarium, the more they would like to hide underneath them. Read the article further to learn more facts about the diet, living conditions, and habitat.
Bumblebee Catfish Size and Color
The body is more like a catfish and has an extended body with a flattened head. They have a body size of 2 to 3 inches, or 5cm to 8 cm, and have black and yellow stripes on the body. The bumblebee catfish are mostly preferred by fish lovers because of their exotic colors and wide mouth with barbells just like a cat. Their big mouths help them feed themselves on other small fish.
In addition to that, some species even have long barbels pointing toward their pectoral fins. If you want to have this species at home,. Make sure you purchase these bumblebee catfish for sale from a trusted place online. Also, do not forget to see the difference between juvenile Pseudopimelodus or Batrochoglanis species and Microglanis sharing (Bumblebee catfish), as many people get confused while getting a Bumblebee catfish.
Habitat and Care Facts
When it comes to the habitat, it requires a suitable tank with a minimum of 20–25, a PH level of 6-7, and multiple hiding areas. You can add bushes, rocks, caves, etc. to make them feel safe, as they love to stay in dark places. The soft, acidic water suits them well and makes for a good environment with a temperature of 21–25 °C.
When you bring the bumblebee catfish to your home, make sure the aquarium has been adjusted according to their needs for them to survive. Also, make sure that you change the water in the tank every week, or at least 25%, to give them a healthy environment. Bumblebee catfish do not like an overcrowded environment; hence, keep a group as small as 5–6 individuals.
Bumblebee Catfish Feeding Care
This catfish species feeds on small fish and insects, as it is a carnivore. It is your ultimate responsibility to feed them correctly and on time. You should know the correct schedule for when they need to be fed. As mentioned above, the bumblebee catfish has a large mouth, so it feeds on large food pellets. You need to make sure that you do not overfeed them.
This is the reason why it is not recommended to share the tank with smaller fish, as they would feed them in no time. You can feed small frozen food, river shrimp, larvae, and cooked food such as prawns, beef hearts, earthworms, and bloodworms.
They love to feed at night, so it is important to sprinkle the tank with the small sinking food granules at their feeding time. As they have a shy nature, they prefer to stay in dark areas during the day. If their food is present in the tank, they can also leave their spot to come out to be fed.
Within a few days of bringing this pet home, you track its feeding timing. In this way, you can avoid adding extra food to their tank to avoid waste. This does not only waste food. You will also have to clean the tank and change its water more often than usual.
Conclusion
It is now clear that if you keep this catfish species in the aquarium, You won’t see it all the time, as it likes to hide in dark places. The Bumblebee Catfish has a shy nature, which is why it stays mostly at the base of the tank. Make sure you keep the tank clean to prevent any fungal infections.
It is best to add some iodine solution to the water or consult with an expert to provide a perfect and clean environment. As long as the water is clean and the fish are getting on time, You will enjoy watching the fish in this lovely environment.
Bumblebee catfish is very famous because of its sparkling color pattern. You will love to watch it when it comes out at night to eat food. If you are a person of aesthetics, then Bumblebee Catfish is perfect for you.
FAQs
What is the average size of a bumblebee catfish?
Bumblebee catfish typically grow to a size of 2 to 3 inches, making them a relatively small and manageable aquarium species.
What colors are commonly found in bumblebee catfish?
Bumblebee catfish are known for their striking black and yellow striped patterns, resembling the coloration of a bumblebee. The vibrant colors make them a visually appealing addition to aquariums.
Where are bumblebee catfish commonly found in the wild?
Bumblebee catfish are native to South America, specifically in the Amazon River basin. Their natural habitat consists of slow-moving, shaded waters with plenty of hiding spots among rocks and vegetation.
How do I create an ideal habitat for bumblebee catfish in my aquarium?
Set up an aquarium with subdued lighting, provide hiding places with rocks or caves, and maintain a stable water temperature between 75 and 80°F. Mimicking their natural environment is crucial for their well-being.
What is the lifespan of bumblebee catfish in captivity?
With proper care, They can live for 5 to 8 years in captivity. Providing a balanced diet and maintaining good water quality contribute to their longevity.
Can bumblebee catfish be kept with other fish in a community tank?
Bumblebee catfish are generally peaceful, but it’s advisable to keep them with non-aggressive tankmates of similar size. Avoid housing them with larger, more aggressive species.
What do bumblebee catfish eat in captivity?
They are omnivores. They thrive on a diet that includes high-quality pellets and frozen or live foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp. A varied diet helps ensure their nutritional needs are met.
How often should I feed my bumblebee catfish?
Feed them small portions 2-3 times a day. Be cautious not to overfeed, as uneaten food can compromise water quality. Adjust the quantity based on their behavior and appetite.
Do bumblebee catfish require a specific water parameter?
These prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5–7.5. Regular water testing and maintenance are essential for their well-being.
Are there different species of Bumblebee Catfish, and do they vary in size?
Yes, there are multiple species, with some variations in size and coloration. It’s essential to research the specific species you own to provide tailored care.
