Garra Salweenica

Datasheet

General Description

Garra salweenica, commonly known as Salween Garra, is a species of fish within the Cyprinidae family. It is characterized by a brownish body, a trilobed proboscis on the snout, blunt snout, black spots at the base of central dorsal-fin rays, longitudinal stripes on the posterior body, and a dark marking at the tip of the caudal-fin lobe. It has a body depth ranging from 22.4% to 25.3% of its standard length.

Aquarium Setup

The Salween Garra thrives in swiftly-flowing sections of headwaters and tributaries. Optimal aquarium conditions include clear, oxygen-rich water, which aids in the growth of a biofilm on submerged surfaces. (See table for additional details).

Behaviour

Members of the genus Garra are known for their ability to cling to surfaces in turbulent conditions due to a modified lower lip forming a mental adhesive disc. They use their keratinized upper and lower jaws to scrape food from the substrate. Some species have evolved specific environmental adaptations, like reduced eyes in hypogean forms.

Feeding and Diet

Salween Garra, like other members of the genus, primarily feed on food items found on the substrate. Their diet consists of algae, small invertebrates, and organic detritus. The species has adapted to scraping these food items using its keratinized jaws.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Specific information regarding the reproduction and dimorphism of Garra salweenica is limited. However, Garra species typically display sexual dimorphism, with males exhibiting differences in coloration or fin morphology during breeding periods. Reproduction often involves the scattering of adhesive eggs in the substrate.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to the Salween River system in Yunnan province, China, Myanmar, and western Thailand, the Salween Garra prefers clear, oxygen-saturated waters in headwaters and tributaries. The species is not usually found in larger, lowland river channels. The type locality for Garra salweenica is at the 'Salween River at Takaw, Kengtung State, southern Shan States, Myanmar.'