麦氏拟腹吸鳅

Overview

Common in the aquarium trade, Pseudogastromyzon myersi comes from Hong Kong and Guangdong. A yellow-based dorsal fin with a red outer band is useful for identification, although markings vary. Repeated aquarium breeding has been achieved in established, oxygen-rich settings with suitable gravel and grazing surfaces.

Distribution & habitat

It inhabits less-developed parts of Hong Kong and neighboring Guangdong, with commercial collections around Guangzhou. Rocky headwaters and minor tributaries contain riffles, pools, and occasional cascades. Sunlit, well-oxygenated surfaces support abundant biofilm. Heavy rain can temporarily cloud the water; some Hong Kong streams are mildly acidic and low in nutrients and conductivity.

Aquarium setup

A footprint of at least 75 by 30 cm should offer numerous rounded stones over sand or gravel. Mature wood, hardy plants, and sponge surfaces add food and shelter. Aim for the suggested turnover above ten tank volumes per hour, supplementing oxygenation without creating a torrent. Maintain strong enough light for biofilm, avoid heavily staining wood, and preserve grazing growth during regular partial changes. Secure the cover against climbing.

Diet & feeding

Genus-level feeding descriptions focus on cyanobacteria, diatoms, and some tiny invertebrates, not bulk removal of tough or long algae. Supply regular small live or frozen foods and any accepted sinking diet. Separately cultured rocks can replenish grazing. Give thin newcomers accessible food without competition.

Behaviour & compatibility

Keep six or more to observe social interactions. Bolder males establish small feeding territories, with dominant fish defending the best patches against other males and lookalikes. General aggression is limited, but smaller, weaker loaches can suffer persistent harassment. Companions must suit the current and oxygen requirements; goldfish are a poor match.

Sexual dimorphism

Adult females are larger and fuller with generally less contrasting markings. Males develop head tubercles, most prominently in dominant individuals.

Breeding

A dedicated breeding aquarium can improve survival over the few young sometimes raised in a community. Mature medium-sized rounded gravel provides protected spaces and supports microscopic food. Add algal stones and sponge filtration that will not draw in eggs or fry. Males establish dominance through charging and attempts to press over rivals before courting passing females.

The male excavates beside a rock with his rear body and tail. Several pits may be made, but one is used for successive batches of eggs and fertilization. He then covers the nest and provides no further care; adults can be removed. Reported incubation spans roughly 4–14 days and may vary with temperature. Young stay in the gravel before emerging around 10 mm total length, immediately grazing and potentially reaching 20–25 mm in about a month.

Notes

Body darkness and the red dorsal band vary among individuals and with condition or surroundings. Absence of that band alone does not settle identity. Historical trade misidentifications make the combination of form, origin, and fin pattern more useful.