Stone Catfish (Hara jerdoni)

Details

Species Name: Stone Catfish (Hara jerdoni)

The Stone Catfish is a fascinating nano catfish prized for its unique camouflage and peaceful nature. Its mottled coloration and flattened body allow it to blend seamlessly among rocks, leaf litter, and driftwood, making it an excellent addition to natural-style aquariums. Despite its secretive nature, this small catfish is hardy and rewarding for aquarists who appreciate unusual bottom-dwelling species.

Description

Native to slow-moving streams and rivers in India and Bangladesh, the Stone Catfish is a small member of the Erethistidae family. These fish spend much of their time resting on the substrate, where their coloration provides excellent camouflage from predators. They are peaceful, nocturnal scavengers that thrive in heavily planted aquariums with plenty of cover and gentle water movement.

Care Level

Easy to Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Size

Up to 1.5 inches (4 cm)

Lifespan

3–5 years

Diet

Omnivorous

Stone Catfish readily accept a variety of foods, including:

 

 

Sinking micro pellets

 

 

Crushed flakes

 

 

Frozen bloodworms

 

 

Frozen brine shrimp

 

 

Daphnia

 

 

Small live foods

 

 

Feed near the substrate to ensure they receive adequate nutrition, especially in community aquariums.

Tank Size

10 gallons minimum

Water Parameters

 

 

Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)

 

 

pH: 6.0–7.5

 

 

Hardness: 2–12 dGH

 

 

Behavior & Compatibility

Stone Catfish are extremely peaceful and do well with other small, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include:

 

 

Small rasboras

 

 

Tetras

 

 

Corydoras

 

 

Peaceful gouramis

 

 

Shrimp and snails

 

 

They prefer aquariums with fine sand or smooth gravel, abundant plants, driftwood, and shaded areas. Their cryptic coloration makes them difficult to spot at times, which is completely normal behavior.

Notes

 

 

Excellent choice for nano and planted aquariums.

 

 

Most active during the evening and nighttime hours.

 

 

Appreciates leaf litter and natural décor that mimics its native habitat.

 

 

Sensitive to poor water quality, so regular maintenance is important.

 

 

Best kept in groups of 3 or more for natural behavior.