Esomus Metallicus

Datasheet

General Description

The Esomus Metallicus, commonly known as the Striped Flying Barb, is one of the dozen described Esomus species characterized by greatly-enlarged pectoral fins and two pairs of barbels, with the maxillary pair being extremely long, reaching the pectoral fins. This species can be distinguished by its distinct features, such as two pairs of barbels extending past the eyes, absence of a supraorbital groove, and a single, incomplete lateral line. In the aquarium trade, it is not particularly popular due to its plain coloration and is often used as a feeder fish in aquaculture.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal aquarium conditions, the Esomus Metallicus thrives in a well-planted tank with dark substrate, floating plants, and driftwood to provide a natural habitat. This species prefers sluggish waters, so water movement should not be too strong. A tank capacity of at least 160 litres is recommended, and a tightly-fitting cover is essential as they are known to be skilled jumpers. It is advisable to avoid biologically-immature tanks to prevent potential health issues caused by fluctuating water chemistry.

Behaviour

There are conflicting reports on the suitability of the Striped Flying Barb for community tanks. While some observations mention a tendency to nip the fins of tankmates, others report no issues. Inadequate numbers or pairing with slow-moving or long-finned species can trigger aggressive behavior, emphasizing the importance of keeping them in groups of 8 or more to establish a hierarchical pecking order. Maintaining a larger group results in a more natural display and encourages engaging interactions among the fish.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Esomus Metallicus feeds on terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates and their larvae. When kept in an aquarium setting, they readily accept dried foods of a suitable size but should also be offered live and frozen options like Daphnia, Artemia, and chironomid larvae to ensure a balanced diet. Regular supplementation with live foods enhances their overall health and vitality.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

While there is uncertainty regarding breeding this species in captivity, experimental induction using hormones has been successful. Adult males of the Striped Flying Barb are typically slimmer and slightly smaller compared to females, displaying subtle sexual dimorphism. The reproductive behaviors and spawning habits of these fish in the wild are yet to be extensively documented.

Habitat and Distribution

The Esomus Metallicus is commonly found in shallow, slow-moving, and standing waters such as rice paddies. Their preference for temporally-inundated environments is evident as they move into flooded areas during the wet season and return to permanent water bodies once flooding recedes. Native to regions spanning from Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, this species is abundant across its range, with feral populations also reported on various islands, highlighting their adaptability to diverse habitats.