鳅形穗唇魮

Overview

Crossocheilus cobitis is a widespread lowland fish whose aquarium identity may be obscured by shared trade names. Its muddy, often turbid habitat is a useful distinction from the clear rocky streams associated with many congeners.

Distribution & habitat

The accepted range reaches from mainland Southeast Asia through Peninsular Malaysia to Sumatra, Borneo and Java. It is usually associated with lower river reaches, muddy bottoms and submerged solid surfaces such as logs or stationary structures.

Aquarium setup

Respect the listed minimum horizontal enclosure dimensions. Submerged surfaces are relevant because of the fish’s association with solid objects and its grazing diet; a naturally turbid habitat should not be confused with permission for poor aquarium water quality.

Diet & feeding

Natural grazing includes algae, diatoms and associated microscopic organisms. Use an algae-rich prepared food with frequent vegetable supplements: shelled peas, softened zucchini or spinach are suitable examples. Avoid a persistently protein-heavy menu. Settled fish may rise away from surfaces for offered food, but browsing established biofilm remains characteristic.

Notes

Two pairs of barbels and a dark side stripe ending in a noticeable small blotch near the tail base are useful characters. The broad current species concept may include several related forms, and generic algae-eater labels do not establish a precise identification.