Garra Poecilura

Datasheet

General Description

Garra poecilura is a species within the genus Garra of the family Cyprinidae. It is characterized by its rounded snout, scaled predorsal region, two pairs of barbels, and specific color patterns including dark blotches and spots on the flank and fins. The genus Garra is known for its enigmatic nature, with new taxa regularly described, leading to potential confusion regarding species identification and classification. Recent studies suggest a need for further taxonomic revisions due to the polyphyletic nature of the current assemblage.

Aquarium Setup

For an aquarium housing Garra poecilura, it is essential to recreate a habitat resembling its natural environment. A setup with rocks and gravel, moderate water flow, and areas of both shade and open space would be ideal. Water should be clear, colorless, and maintained at a moderate temperature. Sympatric species that coexist with G. poecilura include Garra spilota, Homalopteroides modestus, Mystus pulcher, and Xenentodon cancila, alongside other unidentified species such as Brachydanio, Schistura, Syncrossus, and Channa (see table for specific details).

Behaviour

Garra poecilura, like other members of the genus Garra, possesses a modified lower lip that forms a mental adhesive disc, aiding in clinging to surfaces in turbulent conditions. These fish use their keratinized upper and lower jaw margins to scrape food from the substrate. Some species within the genus have evolved specialized traits, such as reduced eyes in hypogean forms, to adapt to specific environments.

Feeding and Diet

In the wild, Garra poecilura is known to scrape food items from the substrate using its keratinized jaw margins. In captivity, they accept a varied diet, including quality flake food, sinking pellets, algae wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. Providing a mix of these food types ensures proper nutrition and feeding behavior.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Details specific to the reproduction and dimorphism of Garra poecilura are not readily available in the provided information. Observations in the wild or controlled breeding environments would be necessary to understand the species' reproductive habits and any distinctive physical differences between males and females.

Habitat and Distribution

Garra poecilura is endemic to the Irrawaddy River system in Myanmar, specifically found in a minor tributary within the Rakhine Yoma mountain range. The species inhabits clear, shallow waters with rocky and gravelly substrates, often in areas with moderate water flow and a mix of shaded and open spaces. Sympatric species found in its habitat include various fish species like Homalopteroides modestus and Mystus pulcher.