Bitnami mongod fails with 'MongoServerSelectionError'

Question

Bitnami's Mongo image launched under virtualbox works and brings up the text console (debian11 so no X11). Debian instance starts the listener correctly according to ss -atpn. But starting mongosh with mongodb uri or switches fails with 'Server selection timed out after 2000 ms'. I invoke mongosh by the commandline NOT from Javascript.
How do I solve this error? what are the different default databases? (Passwords mean nothing here)

• How can I enter Mongo as a superuser or reset users?
• https://stackoverflow.com/questions/59162342/mongodb-connection-error-mongotimeouterror-server-selection-timed-out-after-30
• https://stackoverflow.com/questions/60850039/mongodb-error-on-connection-mongoservers