泰国钝齿鱼 · Princess Carplet

Overview

A small and notably gentle shoaling fish, Amblypharyngodon chulabhornae is rarely offered deliberately and may arrive mixed with other imports. Keeping eight to ten or more together helps them settle and produces a more natural display.

Distribution & habitat

It is widespread through several Thai drainages, including the Maeklong and Chao Phraya, and occurs in the Mekong system of Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. Vegetated wetlands and quiet margins appear to be favored. Flooded grassland becomes available during the wet season, and rice fields or irrigation channels can also be occupied. A feral occurrence in Singapore has been recorded, though lasting establishment was uncertain.

Aquarium setup

Dense planting is appropriate, with vegetation at the surface providing additional shelter. Powerful flow is unnecessary. The biological filter should already be established, as changing water chemistry may be poorly tolerated.

Diet & feeding

Small invertebrates, algae and plankton are thought to contribute to the natural diet. Suitably small dry foods will probably be accepted in captivity. Also provide small live or frozen items such as brine shrimp and water fleas.

Behaviour & compatibility

This is a very peaceful fish with potential for a carefully selected community. Its small size must be accounted for, even when water requirements match those of larger companions. Maintain a proper group rather than a few isolated individuals to reduce nervousness.

Sexual dimorphism

A fuller abdomen distinguishes mature females; they may also become slightly larger than males.

Breeding

Egg scattering without subsequent brood protection is considered probable, but it has not been demonstrated by a documented breeding account. That expectation should not be confused with an established captive procedure.