Black Top Mouse Catfish - (Hassar orestis)

🐟 Black Top Mouse Catfish – (Hassar orestis)

The Black Top Mouse Catfish is a distinctive freshwater catfish native to South America. It features a robust body with a dark, almost black top and a rounded snout resembling a mouse, giving it its common name. Known for its peaceful temperament, it is a great addition to community tanks that can accommodate its size and nocturnal habits.

🌊 Habitat & Care

🏠 Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons
🌊 Prefers soft to moderately hard freshwater with gentle flow
🪵 Provide caves, driftwood, and dense plants for hiding

🍽️ Diet

🍤 Omnivorous — accepts sinking pellets, live and frozen foods, and vegetable matter
🐟 Benefits from a varied diet to ensure good health

⚖️ Temperament

🐠 Peaceful and nocturnal
🚫 Best kept with other peaceful, similarly sized fish

🧠 Behavior & Special Considerations

🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
💧 pH: 6.0–7.5
📏 Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)
⚠️ Requires secure tank lids due to nocturnal activity and escape tendencies
🌿 Prefers dimly lit tanks with plenty of hiding spots

📋 At a Glance

💡 The Black Top Mouse Catfish is a peaceful nocturnal species, ideal for community tanks with ample hiding places and calm tankmates.