Garra sp. 'redtail' · Burmese Red-tailed Garra

Overview

The provisionally unidentified stream fish Garra sp. 'redtail' is also sold under the designation burmanicus. A flexible process between the eyes rises during disputes or courtship, but its exact function is unresolved.

Distribution & habitat

It appears restricted to headwaters near the Myanmar–Thailand border in the Salween region, involving the upper Ataran and Hanthayaw. In Thailand these are known as the Kasat and Suriya.

Shaded fast stretches and riffles are typical, with deeper pools also used. Clear oxygenated water flows over sand, gravel, rocks, boulders, and leaves. Surface growth is abundant, roots and wood provide structure, and plants occur in gentler sections.

Aquarium setup

Create a stream arrangement with varied rounded stones, sand, fine gravel, and roots. Hardy attached ferns or Anubias are useful additions, while bright light promotes grazing surfaces.

Maintain clean oxygen-rich water, preferably circulating more than ten aquarium volumes hourly. Extra pumps or aeration may be needed. Use only a mature stable system. Glass-climbing ability makes a close-fitting lid and secured equipment openings essential.

Diet & feeding

Algae grazing does not imply an exclusively plant-based diet. Combine live or frozen bloodworms, tubifex, Artemia, and chopped shrimp with quality sinking preparations. Some dry foods should include substantial plant ingredients such as spirulina.

Occasional cucumber, melon, softened spinach, or zucchini provides variety. Mixed gel foods using prepared feed, shellfish puree, and fruit or vegetables have also worked. Naturally growing aquarium algae alone are insufficient.

Behaviour & compatibility

It is relatively peaceful toward suitably selected companions in a spacious stream aquarium. Tolerance of its own kind is imperfect, yet loose wild aggregations appear normal and solitary fish can be more aggressive toward similar-looking species.

Where room permits, keep three or four or more. A hierarchy develops, with disputes involving rushing, fin displays, paler coloration, and erection of the snout process in males. Grouping generally reduces harassment of other companions, but provide retreats for subordinate fish.

Sexual dimorphism

External differences remain unconfirmed. Mature females may be fuller-bodied. More prominent male tubercles occur during reproduction in some related species, but that does not establish a dependable sexing method for this form.

Breeding

No usable aquarium breeding record is available.

Notes

Trade appearances began in 2005, and the unidentified designation remains appropriate. When raised, the flexible snout process exposes a pale tubercled underside. Visual or chemical signaling is possible, but these proposed functions should not be treated as demonstrated sensory abilities.