Asian Upside Down Catfish - Mystus leucophasis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Asian Upside Down Catfish (Mystus leucophasis), a distinctive, moderately-sized species of Bagrid, inhabits the river systems of Myanmar in Southeast Asia. This remarkable species is characterized by its unique behavioural trait of swimming in an inverted position, orienting its ventral surface and mouth upwards towards the water's surface. This orientation facilitates its foraging strategy, allowing it to efficiently hunt for insects, crustaceans, and smaller fish.
In their natural habitat and in aquarium settings, these Catfish demonstrate a propensity to attach themselves to the undersides of objects, maintaining this inverted posture for approximately 90% of their active time. In captivity, juvenile Asian Upside Down Catfish exhibit schooling behaviour, whereas adults display a more solitary nature. Their extraordinary swimming habit, coupled with striking colouration, renders them an intriguing addition to aquariums housing fish of similar size.
It is imperative to avoid housing Asian Upside Down Catfish with smaller fish species, specifically those less than three-fourths their size, due to predation risks. Suitable tank companions include robust Cichlids, larger Loricariids, and select larger Cyprinids. It is advisable to steer clear of slow-moving and aggressive fish species. While a single specimen is recommended for smaller tanks to prevent territorial disputes, enthusiasts desiring a group should limit it to one male.
Creating an ideal habitat for the Upside Down Catfish involves designing an aquarium that caters to their specific requirements. This includes the installation of subdued, soft lighting that enhances the aesthetic appeal of their environment. A fine-textured substrate forms the base, augmented with artfully arranged driftwood and twisted roots to provide intriguing hiding spots. The inclusion of strategically positioned rocks enhances the naturalistic appeal. Broad-leaved aquatic plants such as Anubias and Echinodorus enrich the visual aspect and offer additional refuge. The presence of floating plants is essential, as they provide a favoured resting area for these unique fish.
The colouration of the Asian Upside Down Catfish is predominantly a uniform jet black across the body and fins, except for the outermost edges of the caudal fin. Notably, sub-adult and older individuals may exhibit white to silvery flecks along their flanks, adding a subtle contrast to their otherwise monochromatic appearance.
Asian Upside Down Catfish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Asian Upside Down Catfish is a relatively straightforward process. Males are characterized by the presence of a pronounced, elongated genital papilla situated anterior to the anal fin. Additionally, males typically exhibit a leaner body profile and are shorter in length when fully grown, a trait common among most Bagrid species. In contrast, females tend to be longer and possess a more robust body structure.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Mystus leucophasis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1860 |
| Other Names | Burmese Upside-down Catfish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Siluriformes |
| Family | Bagridae |
| Genus | Mystus |
| Origins | Myanmar |
| Max Size | 30 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | NA |
| Best kept as | 2 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 10 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| ℉ | 72 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Asian Upside Down Catfish is native exclusively to the Sittang and Irrawaddy River Basins located in Myanmar, Southeast Asia. This species thrives in freshwater habitats that are characterized by moderate to strong currents, clear to slightly turbid water, and a substrate composed of sand, gravel, and scattered rocks. These environments are often rich in aquatic vegetation and provide an abundance of natural cover in the form of submerged roots, driftwood, and overhanging foliage.
Breeding
The successful reproduction of Asian Upside Down Catfish within domestic aquarium environments remains undocumented. However, this species is extensively propagated by commercial breeding facilities.
Diet & Feeding
Asian Upside Down Catfish exhibit omnivorous feeding habits, demonstrating a preference for a varied diet in its natural habitat. This species adeptly consumes a wide range of food items, including small fish, aquatic invertebrates, and plant matter. In captivity, it is crucial to replicate this diverse diet to ensure optimal health and growth.
A balanced feeding regimen for these Catfish should include high-quality commercial pellets or flakes formulated for omnivorous fish, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
Additionally, incorporating vegetable matter, such as blanched spinach or zucchini, can provide essential nutrients and fibre. It is important to feed in moderation, offering amounts that can be consumed within a few minutes, to maintain water quality and prevent overfeeding-related health issues. Regular monitoring of the fish's feeding behaviour and body condition is essential to adjust the diet as needed and promote a thriving, healthy environment for Asian Upside Down Catfish.
Other Other Catfish
11 More Other Catfish Profiles
View All