Brevibora cheeya

Overview

Brevibora cheeya is a small social fish from the Malay Peninsula and nearby islands. Shade and a dark bottom bring out its appearance. Peaceful community housing is possible, although aggression toward one close relative has been observed.

Distribution & habitat

Records include Selangor, Terengganu, Pahang, and Johor in Peninsular Malaysia, plus Jambi and Riau in Sumatra and the island of Bangka in Indonesia.

The type locality was a slow stream through coastal heath forest with myrtle-like trees. Sand mixed with peat covered the bottom, and the water was acidic.

Aquarium setup

A footprint of at least 80 by 30 cm is suggested. Water quality matters more than a particular style of decor. Sand, roots, and leaves provide shaded retreats; microbial growth on decomposing leaves can supplement fry nutrition. Dense planting over a dark substrate is another effective arrangement, using plants suited to subdued light.

Diet & feeding

Small insects, worms, crustaceans, and other zooplankton are considered likely natural food. Suitable dry products are accepted in captivity, but daily small live or frozen water fleas, brine shrimp, and similar foods are preferable additions.

Behaviour & compatibility

Maintain eight to ten or more to reduce nervousness and encourage normal group displays. Similar-sized, peaceful companions are appropriate, whereas much larger or boisterous fish may outcompete it.

One observation involved aggression directed specifically at a congener while unrelated tankmates were ignored. Monitor interactions carefully if closely related fish share the aquarium.

Sexual dimorphism

Mature females have noticeably fuller bellies and are probably slightly larger than males.

Notes

A complete lateral line and lateral scale counts help separate this fish from similar relatives. It may appear as an incidental import among other species, making old trade labels unreliable. Captive breeding remains unrecorded.