'Inlecypris' Shanensis

Datasheet

General Description

Inlecypris Shanensis, also known as "Hora danio" or "Salween danio," is a peaceful species belonging to the order Cypriniformes. It is commonly found preying on insects and their larvae in nature, although it readily accepts a variety of foods in aquarium settings.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Inlecypris Shanensis, it is essential to replicate a flowing stream or river environment. This includes using a substrate of water-worn rocks, sand, fine gravel, and small boulders. Driftwood, roots, or branches can be added for decoration, and hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias spp. can be incorporated. The species requires clean water and moderate water movement with high dissolved oxygen levels. Regular 30-50% volume water changes are recommended, and a secure cover is necessary due to the species' jumping tendencies.

Behaviour

Inlecypris Shanensis thrives in a community aquarium setting, where it can peacefully coexist with various cyprinids, loaches, cichlids, catfishes, and characins. It is a schooling species that should ideally be kept in groups of 8-10 specimens to reduce stress and create a natural display. In the presence of rivals, males tend to exhibit enhanced colors as they maintain their hierarchical position within the group.

Feeding and Diet

This species is an unfussy eater in aquarium environments, accepting a staple diet of good-quality dried foods supplemented with live and frozen options such as chironomid larvae (bloodworm), Daphnia, and Artemia. Adding a variety of foods helps enhance coloration and overall conditioning of Inlecypris Shanensis.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Inlecypris Shanensis is an egg-scattering free spawner that does not exhibit parental care. In well-planted mature aquariums, fry may appear spontaneously, but controlled breeding can maximize yield. Female fish become noticeably slimmer after spawning, and the adults should be removed after 48 hours. Sexually mature females are typically larger and less colorful than males, with males intensifying in color during reproductive periods.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in the Duthawadi and Salween river systems in Shan state, northeastern Myanmar, the exact range of Inlecypris Shanensis remains somewhat unclear. It inhabits fast-flowing streams with clear water and substrates of rocks, pebbles, and sand, sharing its habitat with species like Brachydanio rosea, Opsarius barnoides, and Pethia stoliczkana, among others.

For further information, see table.