Asian Upside-down Catfish

Mystus leucophasis is a Bagridae species from the rivers of Myanmar that often swims upside down. In this behavior it resembles Africa's upside-down Synodontis, but it is much larger and more predatory than they are. It stands out with its dark gray to black body, long barbels and tall dorsal fin. Adults reach 25–30 cm; a fish bought as a juvenile will need a large aquarium within a few years.

• At least 300 liters and 150 cm of length for a single adult.
• Large roots and roomy caves it can rest beneath upside down.
• 22–27°C, pH 6.5–7.8; strong filtration and good oxygenation.
• A sturdy lid and dim corners.

Carnivorous. Offer fish fillet, shrimp, mysis, worms and sinking carnivore granules. Put the food in during the evening.

Aggressive toward its own kind and similar catfish; two individuals in the same aquarium usually fight constantly. At night it hunts fish and shrimp that fit in its mouth. It can be kept with larger, sturdy species.

Good companions: large, sturdy fish: big barbs, large cichlids, large rainbowfish, large plecos.

Avoid: small and medium-sized fish, shrimp, a second Asian upside-down catfish.