Fin's Fish Guide
The Bumblebee catfish (Microglanis pellopterygius) is a freshwater fish of the family Pseudopimelodidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The bumblebee catfish is a small catfish (Pseudopimelodidae) from fresh water of river basins in South America. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown body with broad dark bands, like a bumblebee, a broad flat head and barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among stones and leaf litter and snaps at insect larvae and small invertebrates. The stout pectoral and dorsal spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bumblebee catfish?
The Bumblebee catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Bumblebee catfish live?
The Bumblebee catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Ecuador
How big does the Bumblebee catfish get?
The Bumblebee catfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Bumblebee catfish dangerous to humans?
The Bumblebee catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Microglanis
More from the family Pseudopimelodidae
Want the complete picture on the Bumblebee catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bumblebee catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.