长臀魮

Overview

Active and social, Mystacoleucus obtusirostris varies somewhat in pattern between localities. It is not normally aggressive, but its feeding enthusiasm and constant movement can overwhelm timid companions.

Distribution & habitat

Its extensive range connects Myanmar and southwestern China with Indochina, the Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra, and Java. Clear oxygenated rivers are preferred, including sandy or gravelly reaches and stony headwaters. Human alteration has also led to occurrence in some lakes and reservoirs.

Aquarium setup

Provide ample unobstructed swimming room. Sand, gravel, worn rocks, wood, and attached hardy plants can form a river display. Good water quality, oxygenation, and moderate circulation are essential; extreme current is unnecessary. Replace around one-third to one-half of the water weekly to limit organic accumulation.

Diet & feeding

A broadly omnivorous wild diet is considered likely, but whether plant remains are eaten directly or inside prey is uncertain. In captivity, offer quality preparations with some vegetable or algal content and frequent small live or frozen additions.

Behaviour & compatibility

Maintain at least six. Robust companions of similar size are preferable to slow or shy species that might struggle during meals. Suitable river fishes and loaches offer possible combinations.

Sexual dimorphism

Mature females may have a deeper body than males.

Breeding

Wild spawning occurs during the wet season, with records covering April through September. Aquarium reproduction has not been confirmed.

Notes

A different scientific name was used for this fish for decades. Its forward-pointing predorsal spine can catch in a net, so transfers require care. A convex anal edge and black dorsal and tail margins assist identification.