盈德益秀朝鲜鳅

Overview

Nine to thirteen flank bars, a small upper tail-base spot, and a reduced male pectoral lamina help identify Cobitis yongdokensis. Clean, oxygen-rich aquarium conditions remain central to its care.

Distribution & habitat

It is endemic to South Korea’s eastern Gyeongsangbuk-do province, with records in the Hyongsan, Yongdokoship, Chuksan, and Songcheon drainages. Shallow slow habitats in middle and upper river reaches, usually less than a meter deep, have sand or pebble substrates.

Aquarium setup

Use at least a 100 by 30 cm footprint with sand or gravel, rounded rocks, and wood. Established filtration and high oxygen are essential; hardy plants can add cover. Good overall circulation should still accommodate the quiet shallow-water setting associated with its habitat. Regular partial changes maintain stable conditions.

Diet & feeding

Offer a varied diet reflecting its consumption of midge larvae and other small benthic invertebrates. Sinking prepared foods should be supplemented regularly with suitable live or frozen prey.

Behaviour & compatibility

Potential companions include suitably sized peaceful stream fishes, selected loaches, and gobies. Avoid strong substrate defenders. Genus-level guidance favors four or more conspecifics, while possible predation on eggs or fry should be considered.

Sexual dimorphism

Females are usually larger and heavier-bodied. Male pectoral fins lengthen, particularly the second ray, with a comparatively small thickened basal lamina.

Notes

Absence of dark post-opercular markings complements the tail-base spot and male pectoral structure when identifying it. Subocular spines may erect and catch in netting.