Homalopteroides Modestus

Datasheet

General Description

Homalopteroides modestus, also known as the "Lizard Loach," is a species of fish from the family Balitoridae. It is relatively small, with a maximum size of 4.4cm. The species has specific morphological adaptations for life in fast-flowing waters, with flattened bodies and horizontally extended paired fins that help them cling to surfaces in rapid streams.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for H. modestus, it is crucial to ensure clean, well-oxygenated water. The tank should have a turnover rate of 10-15 times per hour, requiring the use of an oversized filter and additional equipment like powerheads or airstones if needed. The substrate can consist of gravel, sand, or a mix of both, complemented by water-worn rocks, driftwood, and aquatic plants from adaptable genera. Stable water conditions are essential, so it is advised not to introduce this species to a biologically immature setup.

Behaviour

Despite not being inherently aggressive, H. modestus has specific requirements that limit suitable tankmates. They are known to live in aggregations in nature, showcasing more bold behavior when kept in groups of six or more. Individuals of this species exhibit interesting interactions, making them intriguing to observe in an aquarium setting.

Feeding and Diet

Homalopteroides modestus is a micropredator, feeding on small crustaceans, insect larvae, and other invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, they may accept sinking dried foods, but regular meals of live or frozen options like Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms are essential for their health. Balitorids are often seen emaciated in pet stores, requiring a consistent source of suitable foods for recovery if obtained in a weakened state.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the reproduction of H. modestus remains unrecorded. Sexually mature females are expected to be slightly larger and fuller-bodied compared to males, exhibiting subtle sexual dimorphism.

Habitat and Distribution

Naturally, H. modestus inhabits swiftly-flowing streams and headwaters with clear, oxygen-saturated water. They prefer shallow zones with substrates of gravel, rocks, or boulders covered in biofilm. The species is found in the Salween, Mae Klong, and Tenasserim river systems in southern Myanmar and western Thailand, among other locations, but previous records from Borneo and India are considered inaccurate.

Etymology

The genus name Homalopteroides is derived from the ancient Greek words meaning "form" or "likeness," combined with the generic name Homaloptera. The species epithet modestus is Latin for modest, possibly referencing the less striking coloration of this loach species.