The Striped Dwarf Catfish is a small, hardy, nocturnal fish known for its attractive stripes and adaptability, making it a popular choice for freshwater aquariums.
Overview
The Striped Dwarf Catfish (Mystus vittatus), a native of South and Southeast Asia, is a small, peaceful catfish species admired for its slender body and distinctive horizontal stripes. It is primarily nocturnal and enjoys a well-structured habitat with ample hiding spots. This resilient fish is popular among aquarists due to its easy maintenance and adaptability to various tank environments.
Tank Requirements
A tank of at least 80 liters is suitable for the Striped Dwarf Catfish, with a water temperature of 22-28°C, pH of 6.0-7.5, and general hardness (GH) between 5-15. Provide a tank with subdued lighting, dense vegetation, and caves or other hiding spots to help the fish feel secure. Ensure good water flow and filtration, as this species prefers well-oxygenated water.
Feeding and Diet
In the wild, this catfish is an omnivore, feeding on insects, small invertebrates, and plant material. In an aquarium setting, it will accept high-quality sinking pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, and finely chopped vegetables. Feeding should take place in the evening to align with its nocturnal nature.
Care and Maintenance
Regular water changes and a good filtration system are essential for maintaining water quality for this active fish. Conduct weekly water changes of 20-25% to keep the environment clean. This species is generally hardy but should be monitored for common health issues, such as skin lesions or fungal infections, especially if tank conditions deteriorate.
Compatibility
The Striped Dwarf Catfish is peaceful and compatible with other small, non-aggressive fish. It prefers a community tank with similarly sized species like tetras, rasboras, or other small catfish. Avoid housing it with aggressive or territorial fish, as it may become stressed.
Breeding
Breeding Mystus vittatus in captivity is challenging, as they require specific conditions and can be selective about mates. In a breeding setup, provide fine plants and hiding spaces. The species is an egg scatterer, and the fry may require isolation and special care with finely powdered food.