大鳍秘鮰 · Burdur Toothcarp

Overview

Endemic to Turkey's Lake Burdur, Anatolichthys sureyanus is adapted to strongly alkaline, mineral-rich, saline conditions. It should not be managed as a conventional freshwater tropical killifish. A seasonal cool period and dedicated breeding group are central to care. Its slender body, angular lower jaw, and variable scale coverage also distinguish its appearance.

Distribution & habitat

The range is restricted to Lake Burdur and associated shoreline waters in southwestern Anatolia. Fish concentrate in shallow margins rich in algae and vegetation, also entering neighboring fresh, brackish, and sulfurous springs.

Water abstraction, dams, drought, and pollution have altered lake conditions. Historical algal blooms coincided with major fish losses. Such a restricted range makes maintaining locality stocks particularly valuable.

Aquarium setup

Fine yarn mops and filamentous algae provide both shelter and egg-laying surfaces. The maintenance account calls for marine salt at approximately 3–5 g/L, limiting the suitability of ordinary fine-leaved freshwater plants. Bare bottoms or inert sand and gravel are possible, and strong current is unnecessary.

Keep alkaline, mineral-rich conditions and provide several cool winter months rather than continuous warmth, which may reduce reproduction and longevity. Outdoor care depends on the local climate; some natural sunlight can improve condition where appropriate.

Diet & feeding

Use the varied captive menu recommended for the genus, including small live or frozen brine shrimp, water fleas, and bloodworms. Regular provision is particularly relevant during sustained spring and summer reproduction. Dry foods are usually learned, with a Spirulina-containing food useful when filamentous algae are absent.

Behaviour & compatibility

A dedicated breeding group is preferable under these specialized conditions, with two or three females for each male. Males are often less aggressive than some relatives and may coexist, but breeding still involves defense of temporary territories.

Sexual dimorphism

Males show gray-black body bars, often dark marks on the tail, and darker dorsal and anal fins. Larger, plainer females have irregular flank blotches and clearer fins. Bar counts vary rather than forming a fixed identification character.

Breeding

Small batches of eggs can be produced repeatedly from April through September. Dominant males intensify in color, and receptive females may become yellowish. Fine filaments attach eggs to algae or other surfaces. Daily checks help limit egg loss from the predation known within this genus.

The tiny eggs require particularly delicate handling. Move attached material without gripping eggs, or periodically replace complete mops. Match incubation water to the adults' temperature and chemistry. Hatching commonly takes fifteen to seventeen days. Start the minute fry on infusoria-sized foods, moving to brine-shrimp nauplii or microworms only after several days of growth.

Notes

Differences in scale coverage historically led to multiple names for lake fish. Scale number alone should not be used to separate them into different species. Reliable origin and breeding records help avoid perpetuating confused labels.