Anchor catfish

The Anchor Catfish

The Anchor Catfish (Hara jerdoni), sometimes called "Hara hara" or "Anchor catfish," is a small dwarf catfish native to South Asia, primarily from slow-moving rivers and sandy streams in India and Bangladesh. Its common name comes from its peculiar silhouette: its flat, broad, and triangular body resembles the shape of an anchor.

Of modest size (approximately 4 to 5 cm when fully grown), this fish is popular in aquariums for its peaceful behavior and discreet nature. It is a nocturnal fish that spends the day hidden under leaves, in roots, or between stones, becoming more active at night to search for small prey.

It prefers well-planted aquariums, with a fine substrate such as sand, plenty of hiding places, and moderate current. Regarding diet, the Anchor Catfish accepts various foods: small live or frozen prey, or even sinking pellets.

It is an ideal companion for calm community aquariums, as it shows no aggression and remains discreet. Its relative rarity in the trade and its unique appearance make it a sought-after species by dwarf catfish enthusiasts.