Ganges and Brahmaputra drainages of northern India (Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal) and Bangladesh.
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
3 cm
Temperature
20–25°C
pH
5.6–7.6
Hardness
3–18 dGH (estimated)
Minimum tank
40 litres
Care level
intermediate
Temperament
peaceful
Care
A tiny, well-camouflaged catfish, only about 3 cm standard length, easily recognised by its extremely long pectoral spines, which reach past the base of the pelvic fins. It is a good choice for a small, quiet tank. No source gives a tank size; we suggest at least 40 litres (an estimate). Use a sandy substrate with plenty of plants and some leaf litter and wood for cover. It needs well-oxygenated water at about 20–25 °C and pH 5.6–7.6. It is shy and easily outcompeted, so feed carefully. PlanetCatfish now lists it as Erethistes jerdoni, but it is still sold as "Hara jerdoni". It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, and much of the stock in the trade is wild-caught. Sources: PlanetCatfish (planetcatfish.com/common/species.php?speciesid=432). Checked October 2026.
Diet
Takes a variety of small live and prepared foods, but prefers live foods such as daphnia, small bloodworm and brine shrimp. Make sure food reaches the bottom where it lives.
Breeding
It has been bred in aquariums, but PlanetCatfish gives no details.
Compatibility and tank mates
Peaceful and ideal for a quiet community of small fish such as small rasboras, danios and dwarf gouramis. Avoid boisterous fish and anything large enough to eat it.
Last updated 5 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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