拉氏圆唇鱼

Overview

Cyclocheilichthys lagleri is an unusual peaceful choice for a spacious community. Absence of barbels and a ring of twenty scales around the caudal peduncle help distinguish it from related fish. It is seldom deliberately imported, but may occur among wild Indochinese shipments.

Distribution & habitat

Known localities lie in Thailand's central Chao Phraya drainage and the lower Mekong of Thailand and Cambodia. Observations mainly concern low-lying floodplains. Movement into freshly inundated ground during the rains may be connected with spawning.

Aquarium setup

Long-term accommodation needs a large footprint and room for a social group to move freely. Furnishing is flexible, provided water remains exceptionally clean and well supplied with oxygen. Avoid leaving the entire enclosure bare.

Diet & feeding

Small animal prey, including insects, larvae, crustaceans, and young fish, is considered the probable natural food. That interpretation remains uncertain. In captivity, combine quality granules or flakes with frequent offerings of suitably small live or frozen items. Bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp provide practical variety.

Behaviour & compatibility

Six or more fish form a more suitable social unit than a lone specimen. A group tends to appear less nervous and more colorful. Large adults can nevertheless unsettle timid fish simply through their presence. Many robust cyprinids, loaches, catfish, and other community species may work, subject to matching their size, behavior, and environmental needs.

Sexual dimorphism

Females approaching reproductive maturity are expected to develop fuller bodies than males. This is a tentative guide and should not be treated as a certain method of sexing every individual.