漓江副沙鳅

Overview

Approximately 10–13 dark body bars and an eye-like mark at the center of the tail base characterize Parabotia lijiangensis. It is rarely encountered in aquarium trade, although an occasional individual may arrive among similar fishes. Identification requires several pattern features together.

Distribution & habitat

It was described from the Li River system near Guilin, Guangxi, China; its wider range is unresolved. The Li joins the Gui, which drains through the Xi into the Pearl system. The Lingqu Canal links the upper Li with the Xiang in the Yangtze drainage and may allow fish movements, but that does not establish a Yangtze population of this species.

Clear, oxygenated running water over stones or gravel is a probable habitat, not a fully confirmed description.

Aquarium setup

Allow a footprint of at least approximately 120 × 30 cm. Mixed rocks, gravel, and smooth boulders form a stream-style layout. Roots and branches create shade, pipes provide retreats, and robust attached plants can be placed on the decorations.

Maintain ample circulation and oxygenation, clean water, and stable conditions. Prevent organic waste accumulation and establish biological filtration fully before introduction.

Diet & feeding

Opportunistic feeding on bottom-dwelling insects, crustaceans, and perhaps fry is suggested in nature. In captivity, vary live or frozen bloodworms, Tubifex, chopped shellfish, and earthworms with quality sinking foods rather than relying on a single item.

Behaviour & compatibility

It is not especially aggressive, but very small companions may be disturbed by its activity. Slow or long-finned fishes risk fin damage. Peaceful open-water species of suitable size are better candidates. Check temperature, flow, and space requirements for other loaches and catfishes.

Parabotia are generally relatively peaceful with one another and appear to favor group living, so at least three or four are recommended. This is genus-level guidance rather than a guarantee for every community combination.

Sexual dimorphism

Mature females are expected to be fuller, but body shape alone does not provide a certain identification of sex.

Breeding

Aquarium breeding has not been recorded. Seasonal reproduction and possible migration in nature remain suggestions.

Notes

Additional markings include two dark bands on the head, two rows of gray dorsal-fin spots, and 3–4 bands on each tail lobe. The anal fin carries one faint band and a clearer band near the margin, while the pelvic fins have two indistinct bands. The tail is deeply divided into nearly equal lobes, and relatively large scales cover the body and sides of the head.

Movable spines beneath the eyes in Parabotia can catch in nets and injure hands. Persistent wasting should be investigated without assuming a particular infection from appearance alone.