South American Bumblebee Catfish (Microglanis iheringi) Care Guide
Microglanis iheringi is a small banded catfish from Venezuela, reaching about 6 cm, peaceful with fish too large to swallow.
Overview
Microglanis iheringi is a small dwarf marbled catfish of the family Pseudopimelodidae, described by Gomes in 1946. It has a black-and-yellow banded pattern and is native to Venezuela. The species is nocturnal and bottom-dwelling.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pseudopimelodidae
- Genus: Microglanis
- Scientific name: Microglanis iheringi
- Author: Gomes, 1946
Habitat
The species is recorded from the Turmero River basin in Venezuela. It inhabits swift-flowing waters over rock and gravel substrates.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
- Substrate: soft sand with hiding places and driftwood
Diet
In the wild Microglanis iheringi feeds on insects, mostly ants, and has a trophic level of about 3.5. In the aquarium it is omnivorous and accepts sinking foods and small meaty items; it readily eats fish small enough to swallow.
Compatibility
The species is peaceful toward tankmates too large to be eaten. It is suitable with mid-sized characins and other community fish, while very small fish that could be swallowed should be avoided.
Breeding
Breeding in the home aquarium is considered difficult and is rarely reported.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2020). The species shows low vulnerability to fishing pressure.