Why is my Asian Stone Catfish not eating at night?

Some fish may naturally be less active at night and not show interest in eating. Observe their behavior during the day to confirm this is not a persistent issue.

Can too much light in the tank cause my catfish to stop eating?

Yes, excessive light can stress the fish and disrupt its feeding patterns. Adjust the lighting schedule to mimic natural day-night cycles.

How can I encourage my Asian Stone Catfish to eat?

Try offering food at different times of the day, using different types of food, and ensuring the tank is well-maintained to stimulate appetite.

Is it normal for my Asian Stone Catfish to eat less during the breeding season?

Yes, breeding fish may naturally reduce their appetite. Monitor their health and provide them with a balanced diet even if they eat less.

What should I do if my Asian Stone Catfish is not eating and has clamped fins?

Clamped fins can indicate stress or illness. Check the water quality, feeding routine, and tank environment. If these factors are not the issue, consult a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why Is My Asian Stone Catfish Not Eating? Causes & Solutions

Not eating in Asian Stone Catfish (Hara jerdoni) can be indicative of stress, illness, or environmental issues. This problem is generally not life-threatening but requires prompt attention to prevent further health complications. Owners should first ensure the fish's environment is stable and the diet is appropriate.

Common Causes of Not Eating in Asian Stone Catfish

Poor Water Quality

Most Likely

Ammonia or nitrite levels above acceptable limits can stress the fish and lead to a refusal of food.

Dietary Issues

Most Likely

Overfeeding or a lack of variety in the diet can cause the fish to lose interest in eating.

Stress

Possible

Changes in water parameters, tankmates, or tank decorations can stress the fish and disrupt its feeding behavior.

Illness

Possible

Health issues like internal parasites or infections can cause appetite loss in Asian Stone Catfish.

Maturity

Less Common

Younger fish may not eat as frequently as they grow and mature.

How to Diagnose

Follow these steps in order. Stop when you identify a likely cause and move to treatment.

Check the water parameters using a test kit.
Ensure ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels are within the optimal range.
Recommended: Water test kit
Observe the fish's behavior and appearance for signs of illness or stress.
Look for symptoms such as clamped fins, loss of color, or erratic swimming.
Inspect the tank for any recent changes or potential stressors.
Check for new decorations, aggressive tankmates, or sudden temperature changes.
Review the feeding routine and diet.
Ensure the diet is balanced and the fish is not being overfed.
Consult a veterinary guide specific to Asian Stone Catfish for further guidance.
If the cause remains unclear, refer to specialized literature for more information.

How to Fix It

Improve water quality by performing water changes and maintaining a stable environment.
Change 20-30% of the water weekly to keep ammonia and nitrite levels low.
Adjust the feeding routine to include a variety of foods and smaller, more frequent meals.
Offer live, frozen, or high-quality pelleted food that matches the fish's dietary needs.
Minimize stress by providing hiding spots and reducing aggression among tankmates.
Ensure the tank has adequate cover and consider rearranging the decor to reduce stress.
If illness is suspected, treat the fish with appropriate medication as recommended by a vet.
Follow the vet's instructions for dosing and duration of treatment.
Monitor the fish's response to the changes and continue to provide care as needed.
Keep a close eye on the fish's eating habits and overall health throughout the process.

Prevention

Regular water changes, a balanced diet, and a stress-free environment are crucial for maintaining the health and appetite of Asian Stone Catfish.

When to Seek Expert Help

See a vet if: If the fish continues to refuse food for more than a week or if you notice signs of illness, consult a veterinarian experienced with aquatic pets.

📖 Full Care Guide

Learn everything about keeping a healthy Asian Stone Catfish — tank setup, water parameters, diet, tank mates, and disease prevention.

Asian Stone Catfish Care Guide →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Editorial review

This guide was reviewed for biological accuracy and practical aquarium care guidance. Always test water parameters before treating a sick fish — poor water quality is the most common root cause. Consult an aquatic veterinarian if symptoms persist after 48 hours of correct treatment.

Species	Asian Stone Catfish
Scientific	Hara jerdoni
Water	freshwater
Temp	20–26°C
pH	6–7.5
Care level	beginner