Anchor Catfish

Adults reach approximately 3 cm in length. Their coloration ranges from light to dark brown tones. The pectoral fins are noticeably large, somewhat resembling wings, and have small spines at their tips. Distinguishing males from females is quite difficult, as sexual dimorphism is weakly expressed.

The natural habitat of this species is within modern India and Bangladesh. These catfish prefer small rivers and streams where the current is very slow and the substrates are soft.

This active and peaceful fish fits well into a community of other small and friendly species, such as Danios, Rasboras, Neon Tetras, and others. Given the small size of the catfish, it is not advisable to house them with large fish, especially other benthic catfish species, to avoid competition for food in the bottom layers.

For a small group of these catfish, the optimal tank volume starts from 20 liters, while a single specimen can also be kept in a nano-aquarium. When setting up the aquarium, provide plenty of hiding places, which can be created using driftwood or various decorative elements (such as ceramic pots, sunken ships, castles, etc.). The choice of plants depends on the aquarist's preferences or the needs of other aquarium inhabitants. The substrate should be soft, sandy. Adding oak or Indian almond leaves to the bottom will not only give the aquarium a more natural look but also tint the water a light brown hue, characteristic of this species' natural habitat. The leaves are first dried, then soaked until they sink; they are replaced once every one to two weeks. Special attention should be paid to water quality: it must be clean, free of visible suspended particles, relatively cool (a heating system for the aquarium is usually not required), and well-oxygenated. Equipment is set up according to these requirements. Aquarium care includes regular cleaning of the substrate from organic waste and weekly partial water changes (15–20% of the total volume) with fresh water.

These catfish consume any sinking foods of appropriate size, and it is important that both protein and plant components are present in their diet. It is highly desirable to include live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp. The source of the food is not critical, as the catfish's excellent sense of smell will easily locate it anywhere in the aquarium.

Breeding this species in captivity is considered a complex process and is not well understood. To stimulate spawning, a group of several individuals is used, which are fed abundantly with live foods. The fish use fine-leaved plants or Java moss as a spawning substrate, where they lay small eggs. The fry are extremely sensitive to water quality, therefore requiring impeccable cleanliness, aeration, and no current. The young are fed with microscopic live foods or specialized liquid formulations.

The main cause of most diseases in these fish is unsuitable keeping conditions and poor-quality nutrition. If initial symptoms are observed, it is first necessary to check water parameters and the concentration of dangerous substances such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. If the indicators deviate from the norm, they should be brought back into order, and only then should treatment begin.

When choosing Anchor Catfish, pay attention to the activity and appearance of the individuals. Healthy fish should have clean skin without white spots, sores, or visible damage, and tightly clamped fins. Avoid purchasing individuals with signs of emaciation, sunken bellies, or unnaturally bloated abdomens. It is important to observe their behavior in the store: healthy fish may be shy but should not show signs of apathy or constantly lie on their side. Keep in mind that this is a nocturnal species, so they may be inactive during the day in the store.