Black Upside Down Catfish

General information

The average adult is 12 inches. These fish has a dark base color and white or silver spots on the flanks; it spends most of its time upside down. This species is very territorial so it is advisable to only have one specimen, however, if they are kept in a group it is important to provide a large aquarium and enough caves or PVC pipes for each individual to call a home. It can be kept in a community aquarium with other large  and active fish,  this species can bother slow-moving tankmates and eat any smaller fish present. The water temperature should be between 73.4ºF and 80.6ºF and it should have a good current. This species isn’t recommended for beginners.

It can be fed with dried, live and frozen foods. A varied diet is recommended to keep the fish in good health and with a good coloration.

Mature females are wider, longer and rounder than mature males. Also, males have an elongated and genital papilla in front of the anal fin.

Mystus leucophasis can be found in large rivers in Myanmar.

Since these fish are jumpers, it is advisable for the aquarium to have a lid.