Mystus bleekeri

Mystus bleekeri is a slender, fast-moving bagrid catfish from the river systems of India and Bangladesh, closely related to M. vittatus but distinguished by its more elongate body and slightly different stripe pattern. It inhabits a range of water bodies from large rivers to smaller streams and ponds, and is one of the more commonly encountered small Mystus species in the trade when available.

In the aquarium it mirrors the care requirements of its relatives: a medium to large tank, hiding places under driftwood, sinking foods, and tankmates too large to be predated. It is noticeably active in open water during the evening hours and develops a degree of familiarity with its keeper. Groups of three or more are more natural but a solitary specimen is also contentedly active.

Breeding has been achieved in captivity. After conditioning with live and frozen food, the species spawns over substrate and plant material in response to simulated seasonal rainfall. Fry are immediately large enough to accept standard first foods and growth is rapid.

Water: 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; clean water maintained by regular changes. Tank: 120 L minimum; driftwood caves; secure lid; strong filtration. Feeding: Omnivore-carnivore; sinking pellets, bloodworm, prawns, earthworm pieces. Breeding: Substrate-spawner; seasonal conditioning; fry accept crushed flake immediately. Compatibility: Peaceful community fish with medium and large species; avoid small fish and invertebrates.