Delta Wing Dwarf Catfish – Erethistes jerdoni | Tiny, peaceful mini catfish with an unusual shape

The Delta Wing Dwarf Catfish ( Erethistes jerdoni ) is one of the smallest known catfish in the world – and a true rarity in aquariums! With its flattened body, wide-spreading pectoral fins, and typical "delta wing" shape, it resembles a small aquatic insect. Despite its diminutive size, it is robust, peaceful, and extremely interesting to observe.

In its natural habitat, Erethistes jerdoni inhabits clear, cool streams in northeastern India and Nepal. It prefers to stay near the bottom, foraging for food among leaves, roots, and stones. This species is peaceful, crepuscular, and ideal for small, well-filtered aquariums with a gentle current.

🌿 Characteristics & Attitude:
🐟 Fish size: S (approx. 2–2.5 cm, fully grown)
🌍 Origin: South Asia (Northeast India, Nepal) – Wild caught
🌡️ Temperature: 20-25°C
💧 pH value: 6.5–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Peaceful, calm, crepuscular
🏞️ Aquarium: from 40 liters with sandy bottom, gentle current, roots & leaves

🍽️ Feeding:
The delta-wing dwarf catfish prefers fine frozen and live foods such as cyclops, brine shrimp nauplii, or microworms. Fine, sinking granules are also accepted after an acclimation period. A varied, protein-rich diet promotes its vitality.

💡 Tip:
Erethistes jerdoni prefers cool, oxygen-rich water with a gentle current. Dense planting, soft substrate, and a fine current create ideal conditions. In groups of five or more, it exhibits natural, calm social behavior.

👉 Conclusion:
The Delta Wing Dwarf Catfish ( Erethistes jerdoni ) is a tiny, peaceful mini catfish with an extraordinary body shape – a true rarity for lovers of small species and nano aquariums.