伊氏波鱼 · Lambchop Rasbora

Overview

A bright copper-red body and a narrow, tapering dark flank patch distinguish Trigonostigma espei. This peaceful group fish is often confused with similar rasboras; overall color, body depth, and the outline of the marking should be considered together.

Distribution & habitat

Principal populations occur in southwestern and southeastern Thailand, with records extending into southwestern Cambodia and to Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island. Reports from Laos may be misidentifications. Many sites are shaded, gently flowing forest streams with dense plants and soft, slightly acidic to neutral water. Some Krabi populations instead occupy clear limestone pools and their overflow channels in neutral to mildly alkaline conditions.

Aquarium setup

Provide dark substrate, planting, and wood that creates shaded retreats. Soft sand and leaves offer a natural arrangement; microbial growth on decomposing litter can supplement fry food. Subdued lighting, floating cover, and shade-tolerant plants suit the display.

Diet & feeding

Its probable wild prey includes small insects, worms, crustaceans, and other zooplankton. Suitable flakes and fine granules are readily accepted, with regular live or frozen bloodworms, Daphnia, and Artemia providing variety.

Behaviour & compatibility

Peaceful companions of appropriate size and compatible water needs can share the aquarium. Its small adult size must still guide selection. Keep eight to ten or more to reduce nervousness and encourage male displays.

Sexual dimorphism

Females tend to be slightly larger and rounder through the abdomen. Males are slimmer and more colorful, with a sharper outline to the dark patch; the female marking is often more rounded.

Breeding

Eggs adhere beneath broad leaves or to other surfaces, and receive no parental care. A mature planted aquarium may yield occasional fry. For controlled breeding, prepare a dim tank with broad leaves or artificial substitutes and mesh below to protect unattached eggs. Use soft acidic water, gentle sponge filtration, and temperatures toward the upper end of its normal range.

Condition adults for several weeks with small live and frozen meals several times daily. Once females are full and males display strongly, a cooler change of roughly forty to fifty percent can precede introduction of one or two pairs that evening. Courtship often begins the next morning; pairs turn upside down beneath a leaf and lay eggs in batches. Replace unsuccessful pairs after three or four days. Separate eggs from adults promptly after spawning. Hatching usually takes one to two days, with free swimming around a week. Start fry on Paramecium-sized food, then introduce microworms and Artemia nauplii.

Notes

Experience with related species suggests older breeders may be more productive, but does not establish a fixed age threshold for this species. Red coloration also varies between localities.