Fin's Fish Guide
The Ornate bumblebee catfish (Hyalobagrus ornatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The ornate bumblebee catfish is a small bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from slow-flowing, soft blackwater of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a slender, yellow-black banded, semi-translucent body with barbels and an adipose fin. As a shy, nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters among leaf litter, roots and plants and snaps at small invertebrates and insect larvae. The pectoral and dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful prick when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ornate bumblebee catfish?
The Ornate bumblebee catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Ornate bumblebee catfish live?
The Ornate bumblebee catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand
How big does the Ornate bumblebee catfish get?
The Ornate bumblebee catfish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Ornate bumblebee catfish dangerous to humans?
The Ornate bumblebee catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyalobagrus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Ornate bumblebee catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ornate bumblebee catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.