The Anchor Catfish (Hara jerdoni), also widely known as the Asian Stone Catfish or Moth Catfish, is a tiny, peaceful freshwater fish native to the slow-moving streams of India and Bangladesh. It is a popular choice for "nano" aquariums due to its miniature size and unique, driftwood-like camouflage.
Key Characteristics
Size: One of the world's smallest catfish, typically reaching only 2.5 to 4 cm (1 to 1.6 inches).
Appearance: They have a mottled brown, stone-like body and large pectoral spines that resemble an anchor when extended.
Behavior: Primarily nocturnal and sedentary; they spend most of the day hiding among plants, rocks, or driftwood.
Lifespan: Generally live for 5 to 7 years with proper care.
Aquarium Care Requirements
Parameter Ideal Range
Minimum Tank Size 5 to 10 gallons (19–38 litres)
Temperature 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F) — they prefer cooler water
pH Level 5.6 to 7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
Substrate Soft sand is essential to prevent injury to their delicate sensory barbels.
Diet & Compatibility
Feeding: They are omnivorous micropredators. While they may scavenge for leftover pellets, they thrive on small meaty frozen or live foods like bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Feeding should occur after lights out.
Tank Mates: Best kept in groups of 3 to 6+. They are compatible with other peaceful nano fish like Celestial Pearl Danios, Rasboras, and even adult dwarf shrimp.
Caution: Avoid housing them with boisterous or large bottom-dwellers (like large Corydoras) that may outcompete them for food.
SKU: RBM
