Mystus vittatus

Mystus vittatus, commonly known as the Striped Dwarf Catfish, is one of the most widespread bagrid catfish in South Asia, found across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. It has an attractively striped body with bold dark brown longitudinal stripes alternating with gold-cream interspaces, a long adipose fin, and the characteristic four pairs of barbels of the Mystus genus. At up to 18 cm it is a mid-sized catfish, active and fast-moving especially after lights out.

In the aquarium M. vittatus is an adaptable and undemanding species that fits well in larger community tanks with fish too big to swallow. It spends daylight hours resting under driftwood or in cave structures, becoming active at dusk. Feeding is straightforward as it accepts most sinking foods including pellets, frozen bloodworm, prawns, and chopped meaty foods.

Breeding in captivity is documented but uncommonly achieved in home aquariums. The species spawns among plants and substrate material after rain-season conditioning (simulated by increased water changes and slightly lowered temperatures). Fry are large enough to accept crushed flake and baby brine shrimp from hatching.

Water: 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; tolerant but benefits from clean water. Tank: 150 L minimum; driftwood caves for shelter; good filtration; tight lid (can jump). Feeding: Omnivore-carnivore; sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, prawns, chopped meaty foods. Breeding: Substrate-spawner; rain-season simulation helps; fry easy to raise. Compatibility: Peaceful with fish too large to swallow; avoid very small species or shrimp.