Homaloptera Orthogoniata

Datasheet

General Description

The Homaloptera Orthogoniata, commonly known as the Saddle-Back Loach, is a fish that possesses a distinct appearance when compared to its congeners. It can be identified by the presence of three large, saddle-shaped markings on its dorsal surface, with additional characteristics including specific fin ray counts and scale patterns. This species is typically found in swiftly-flowing streams and headwaters with clear, oxygen-rich water, showcasing specialized morphological features adapted for such habitats.

Aquarium Setup

To effectively house the Saddle-Back Loach, it is crucial to maintain clean, well-oxygenated water. An oversized filter with a turnover rate of 10-15 times per hour is recommended, and additional equipment like powerheads and airstones can be utilized to achieve optimal flow and oxygen levels. The tank should contain a substrate of gravel, sand, or a mix of both, along with water-worn rocks, pebbles, and driftwood. While aquatic plants are not commonly found in its natural habitat, species like Microsorum, Crinum, and Anubias can be added. Regular water changes are necessary, and surfaces aside from the viewing pane can be allowed to grow aufwuchs.

Behaviour

The Saddle-Back Loach is not inherently aggressive, but its specific tank requirements may limit suitable tankmate choices. It tends to thrive best when kept in groups of six or more, displaying more bold behavior compared to solitary or smaller groups. These loaches typically form aggregations in nature and exhibit interesting interactions among themselves, often positioning close together facing the water flow at certain times of the day.

Feeding and Diet

This species is a specialized grazer, feeding on biofilm, small crustaceans, insect larvae, and other invertebrates. While some sinking dried foods may be accepted in captivity, regular meals of live or frozen food such as Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms are crucial for maintaining good health. Ensuring the presence of algae and aufwuchs in the tank is highly preferable as these natural food sources contribute to the nutritional well-being of the Saddle-Back Loach.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Limited information is available regarding the reproductive behavior of the Saddle-Back Loach in aquarium settings. Sexually mature females typically exhibit a slightly larger and fuller-bodied profile compared to males. In nature, this species is presumed to be a seasonal spawner, but specific breeding patterns in captivity remain undocumented.

Habitat and Distribution

Primarily endemic to the island of Borneo, the Saddle-Back Loach inhabits swiftly-flowing streams and headwaters characterized by clear and oxygen-saturated water. Its distribution spans regions such as the Sungai Baram and Sungai Rajang basins in Malaysian Borneo and various river basins in Indonesian Borneo. The species shows a preference for shallower zones with substrates composed of gravel, rocks, and boulders covered in algae-rich biofilms, although aquatic plants are sporadically present in its natural environment.