Gymnostomus Ornatapinnis

Datasheet

General Description

Gymnostomus Ornatapinnis is a species found in the Mekong River system in Laos, Thailand, and Cambodia. It can be easily distinguished by its small head, short and blunt snout, deep caudal peduncle, and uniquely colored pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins which are usually reddish-orange or rose-tinted, often with white tips. One of the notable features of this species is the complete absence of barbels, giving it a distinct appearance.

Aquarium Setup

For setting up an aquarium for Gymnostomus Ornatapinnis, a tank size of at least 20 gallons is recommended with appropriate filtration. The water should have a temperature range of 23-28°C (73-82°F) and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Substrate can be fine gravel or sand, with plenty of hiding spots created by driftwood, rocks, or plants. It is advisable to keep the lighting subdued to mimic its natural habitat. For more details on specific requirements, refer to the table provided.

Behaviour

Gymnostomus Ornatapinnis is known to prefer still or slow-moving waters and often occupies marginal habitats. This species is observed to be active and agile swimmers, displaying schooling behavior in the wild. They are relatively peaceful but can exhibit territorial tendencies, particularly during breeding periods.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Gymnostomus Ornatapinnis feeds on algae, small invertebrates, and other organic matter. When kept in captivity, they readily accept a varied diet including high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and vegetable matter. Offering a diverse diet ensures their nutritional needs are met.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the reproductive behavior of Gymnostomus Ornatapinnis in captivity is limited. In their natural environment, they likely follow typical cyprinid spawning behaviors. Sexual dimorphism in this species may be subtle, with potential differences in coloration or body size between males and females during breeding periods.

Habitat and Distribution

The habitat preference of Gymnostomus Ornatapinnis includes still or slow-moving waters, often found in temporarily-inundated marginal areas. This species is specifically found in the Mekong River system within Laos, Thailand, and Cambodia, though it has not been reported in Vietnam. The type locality for this species is a roadside ditch in northeastern Thailand.