Schilbe Mystus

Schilbe mystus is a mid-water, schooling catfish from the rivers and large lakes of West and Central Africa, unusual among catfish in that it is an active open-water swimmer rather than a bottom-hugging species. Its streamlined silver body, forked caudal fin, and four pairs of barbels give it a classic catfish appearance while its behaviour is far more tetra-like — it schools actively in the mid-water column throughout the day.

In the aquarium, Schilbe mystus needs space and excellent water quality. A flow-through style setup with good oxygenation and moderate to strong current suits it well. It should be kept in groups of at least five to six to display natural schooling behaviour. Single specimens or very small groups become nervous and reclusive. Open swimming space is more important than complex décor.

Schilbe mystus is an omnivore that accepts a wide variety of foods including pellets, flake, and frozen invertebrates. Its only limitation as a community fish is that it may consume very small fish or fry. With large, peaceful tank mates it is entirely benign.

Water: Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 22–28°C, GH 3–15, KH 1–8. Tank: Minimum 300 L with moderate to strong flow, open swimming space, and good oxygenation. Feeding: Omnivore; pellets, flake, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and small sinking carnivore pellets. Breeding: Egg scatterer; rarely bred in captivity; seasonal triggers from native habitat required. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium to large fish; may consume very small fish or fry.