Striped Mystus (Mystus vittatus) Care Guide
Mystus vittatus is a striped South Asian bagrid catfish from lakes and swamps, an omnivore best kept in groups in a roomy tank.
Overview
Mystus vittatus is a striped bagrid catfish of South and Southeast Asia. FishBase records it from Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Malaysia, Laos, Bhutan, Vietnam and Cambodia. It is a nocturnal, bottom-oriented fish that has been bred in the aquarium and is also valued in minor commercial fisheries.
Taxonomy
- Family: Bagridae (bagrid catfishes)
- Genus: Mystus
- Scientific name: Mystus vittatus
Habitat
According to FishBase the species is usually found among marginal vegetation in lakes and swamps with a mud substrate, and inhabits both standing and flowing fresh and brackish waters. Like other bagrids it is a facultative air-breather, allowing it to cope with low-oxygen conditions.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Group size: 5 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Diet
FishBase describes Mystus vittatus as an omnivorous feeder taking plants, shrimps, insects, mollusks and fish, at trophic level 3.1. In aquaria it readily accepts sinking pellets and frozen or live foods, fed once daily and ideally after lights-out.
Compatibility
It is peaceful with similarly sized tankmates but will eat fish and shrimp small enough to swallow. A group of five or more reduces stress and shows more natural behavior. Suitable companions include robust barbs and loaches; provide driftwood, caves and a soft sand substrate.
Breeding
FishBase notes the species is oviparous with distinct pairing, reaches sexual maturity at roughly 9 cm, and makes sounds during spawning.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009).