Asian Stone Catfish

Asian Stone Catfish are primarily detritivores and biofilm grazers that feed on algae, aufwuchs, and microorganisms on rock and wood surfaces. Supplement their natural grazing with high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, and occasional frozen micro foods like cyclops or newly hatched brine shrimp. Feed small amounts daily, as they are bottom feeders that prefer continuous grazing opportunities.

These tiny catfish are nocturnal and spend most of their time clinging to rocks and driftwood using their fused ventral surface, making them excellent algae controllers. They are peaceful and non-aggressive but remain largely hidden during the day, becoming more active at dusk and night. They are social within their own species and should be kept in groups of at least 4 to exhibit natural schooling behavior.

Breeding in captivity is extremely rare and poorly documented. They require cool, fast-flowing water with high oxygen levels and specific substrate conditions that are difficult to replicate in home aquariums. Success has not been reliably achieved by hobbyists, making captive breeding essentially impractical.