Mystus sp. albino yellow 8 - (Mystus pelusius) — 8-10cm

Overview

Albino Yellow Mystus (Mystus pelusius albino yellow morph) is a striking albino yellow Mystus catfish with bold personality, nocturnal habits, and a preference for spacious, well-structured aquariums. Native to Iraq, Turkey, and Iran (this is an albino color morph), this species is prized for its vivid yellow coloration, distinctive appearance, and manageable size. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co (8-10 cm specimens), this unusual catfish is ideal for the community aquarium keeper seeking something different.

Appearance

The Albino Yellow Mystus typically reaches around 8 cm in total length (though wild-type individuals can grow larger, up to 17 cm). The body is robust and elongated, with a vivid yellow or golden coloration due to the albino mutation. The eyes are pink or red, a characteristic feature of albino fish. The long barbels are used for foraging. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged barbels.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, the natural form of Mystus pelusius is native to Iraq, Turkey, and Iran, where it inhabits rivers and ponds, often amidst vegetation in muddy waters. These waters are typically warm, soft to moderately hard, and slightly acidic to neutral. The substrate is composed of mud or fine sand, and the fish spend much of their time foraging for invertebrates, small fish, and organic matter. This yellow albino form is a captive-bred color variant.

Aquarium Setup

A well-filtered aquarium of at least 90 litres is recommended for an Albino Yellow Mystus. Use a soft sand substrate to protect the barbels, and incorporate smooth rocks, driftwood, caves, and robust structures to provide hiding places. Ensure good filtration and moderate water movement to maintain high oxygen levels and excellent water quality. Subdued lighting will help the fish feel secure and encourage natural behavior. A secure lid is advisable, as catfish can jump.

Feeding

The Albino Yellow Mystus is a carnivore and thrives on a varied meaty diet. Offer sinking carnivore pellets as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms, and other small aquatic invertebrates. Supplement occasionally with high-quality prepared foods. Feed once or twice daily in small amounts appropriate for the fish's size, offering food in the evening when the fish is most active.

Behaviour

This catfish is semi-aggressive and nocturnal, spending much of the day hiding among cover and becoming active at night to forage. Males can be territorial toward other bottom-dwelling fish. They use their long barbels to locate food in dark conditions. Due to their nocturnal nature and potential to eat small tankmates, choose companions carefully.

Tank Mates

The Albino Yellow Mystus is suitable for a community aquarium with other robust fish. Good tankmates include robust peaceful to semi-aggressive fish of similar size, medium-sized barbs, larger rasboras, rainbowfish, and other non-territorial bottom dwellers of similar size. Avoid very small fish, shrimp and other small invertebrates, slow-moving long-finned fish, overly aggressive territorial species, and tiny fry.

Breeding

Breeding the Albino Yellow Mystus is uncommon in home aquaria, and specific spawning conditions are not well documented for the aquarium trade. If it occurs, it likely requires excellent water quality, seasonal conditioning, and a mature pair.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering unusual and striking catfish like the Albino Yellow Mystus direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add unique, colorful species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.