Garra Kalpangi

Datasheet

General Description

Garra Kalpangi is a species of cyprinid fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae and the order Cypriniformes. It is characterized by having two pairs of barbels, a weakly developed proboscis on the snout, and 16 circumpeduncular scales. This species is closely related to G. gravelyi, G. rotundinasus, and G. elongata due to similarities in proboscis development.

Aquarium Setup

For a healthy aquarium setup for Garra Kalpangi, it is recommended to provide a well-filtered tank with moderate water flow. Substrate should mimic natural habitat, and driftwood, rocks, and plants can be added for hiding spots and territorial marking. Water parameters should be as follows: temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, and hardness 5-15 dGH. More details can be found in the setup table.

Behaviour

Garra Kalpangi exhibits typical behavior for the genus Garra, using a modified lower lip as an adhesive disc to hold onto surfaces in fast-flowing waters. They are known to scrape food off surfaces using their keratinized jaw margins and are adapted to specific environmental niches, such as reduced eyes in hypogean forms.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Garra Kalpangi feed on various food items scraped off surfaces, including algae, small invertebrates, and other organic matter. In an aquarium setting, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality flakes, pellets, live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetable matter.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information regarding the specific reproductive behavior and dimorphism of Garra Kalpangi is currently limited. Generally, in cyprinid species, males and females may display slight differences in coloration or fin shape during the breeding season.

Habitat and Distribution

Garra Kalpangi is endemic to the Kalpangi River, a tributary in the Brahmaputra basin located in the Himalayan foothills of Arunachal Pradesh state, northeastern India. The species is primarily found at an altitude of 843 meters within the Lower Subansiri District. Its distribution is restricted to this specific region, as per the known type locality information.