Garra Borneensis

Datasheet

General Description

Garra borneensis is the sole member of its genus found in Borneo, specifically in Indonesia. The genus Garra remains a complex group with ongoing taxonomic revisions and potential division into smaller taxa due to its wide distribution across southern China, southeast Asia, India, the Middle East, and north/central Africa. Members of the genus are usually classified in the subfamily Labeoninae/Cyprininae or tribe Labeonini, split into four subtribes: Labeoina, Garraina, Osteochilina, and Semilabeoina. Species in the Garraina subtribe, which includes G. borneensis, have a specialized lower lip forming a mental adhesive disc for clinging to surfaces and keratinized jaw margins used for feeding.

Aquarium Setup

The habitat of G. borneensis replicates swiftly-flowing streams with clear, oxygen-rich water, gravel, rocks, boulders, or bedrock substrates covered in algae and biofilm. This fish species prefers shallower zones, riffles, and runs, making it essential to recreate these conditions when setting up an aquarium. For more specific details on the aquarium setup, refer to the provided table.

Behaviour

Inhabiting swift streams, G. borneensis is likely to display a strong preference for zones with strong currents. These fish utilize their specialized lower lip to attach themselves to surfaces in turbulent waters, allowing them to forage for food effectively.

Feeding and Diet

Garra borneensis, like other Garraina species, use their keratinized jaw margins to scrape food items off the substrate. They are known to primarily feed on algae, biofilm, and other microorganisms present on rocks and gravel in their natural habitat.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Specific details about the reproduction and potential dimorphism of G. borneensis are not available in the provided information.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to northern and western Borneo, G. borneensis has been recorded in various river basins in Kalimantan, Brunei Darussalam, Sabah, and Sarawak. These fish inhabit swift, clear water streams with rocky substrates and an abundance of algae and biofilm. One such habitat in central Kalimantan housed G. borneensis alongside various other fish species including Paracrossocheilus vittata and Rasbora elegans.