South American Bumblebee Catfish

The Bumblebee Catfish, scientifically referred to as Microglanis sp., is a group of small South American catfish found in slow-moving rivers and streams from Venezuela and Colombia down to Argentina. Though several species exist, they are all very similar in size, behavior, and husbandry, and are often sold in the aquarium trade simply as “Bumblebee Catfish.” They are nocturnal, hardy, and strikingly patterned, making them popular among aquarists seeking small, peaceful bottom-dwellers.

Adult Microglanis typically reach about 2.5 to 3 inches (6 to 7.5 cm) in length. They are stout-bodied with a broad head, short rounded fins, and bold dark-and-light banding reminiscent of a bumblebee. The exact pattern varies among species and even individuals, but the effect is always attractive. Their barbels are relatively short compared to other catfish, and the eyes are large and expressive.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a single specimen or a small group. Microglanis are shy and reclusive during the day, so provide abundant hiding spots such as caves, driftwood tangles, leaf litter, and rock crevices. A soft sand or fine gravel substrate is ideal. They prefer subdued lighting and will become most active at dusk and night. They are not demanding about water flow but do appreciate gentle movement and well-oxygenated water.

Water parameters for Microglanis species should include a temperature of 70 to 78°F (21 to 26°C), a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. They are hardy but thrive best in clean, stable conditions with regular partial water changes.

Feeding Microglanis sp. is easy. They are omnivorous scavengers and accept a wide variety of foods, including sinking pellets, carnivore wafers, and frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blackworms. They may also graze on detritus and leftover foods but should not be considered “cleaner fish.” Feed primarily after lights out to match their nocturnal activity.

Bumblebee Catfish are peaceful and can be housed with a variety of similarly sized community fish such as tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, dwarf cichlids, and small loaches. Avoid keeping them with very large or aggressive fish that may see them as prey. They may eat tiny fry but otherwise are safe with most tankmates.

Breeding Microglanis in captivity is very rare and poorly documented. They are thought to be egg scatterers, depositing eggs among crevices or vegetation, with no parental care. Most individuals in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Microglanis sp. (Bumblebee Catfish) is a charming and hardy genus of small catfish that adds bold markings, shy personality, and nocturnal interest to South American or community aquariums.