Metzia Lineata

Datasheet

General Description

Metzia Lineata, also known as Clupea huae Tirant, is a species of fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae. It can be distinguished from its similar-looking congener, M. mesembrinum, by specific morphological characteristics such as anal-fin rays, predorsal scales, and lateral line scales. The taxonomy of this species and its genus remains somewhat unresolved, with potential genetic lineages and similarities to other genera like Ischikauia and Hemiculterella noted.

Aquarium Setup

The aquarium setup for Metzia Lineata should ideally replicate its natural habitat, which includes slow-moving to still waters with abundant aquatic vegetation. It is recommended to provide clear to turbid water conditions and ample vegetation, similar to streams, rice paddies, and marginal ditches. Keeping sympatric species like M. formosae, Barbodes semifasciolatus, and Rasbora steineri can enhance the natural environment within the aquarium (see table for specific setup details).

Behaviour

In its natural habitat, Metzia Lineata exhibits typical behavior for a cyprinid fish, often seen amongst aquatic vegetation and minor tributaries. It is known to be a peaceful species, coexisting with other fish, including its congeneric species. The behavior of this fish in aquarium settings is generally docile, making it suitable for community tanks.

Feeding and Diet

Metzia Lineata is an omnivorous species, feeding on a varied diet consisting of both plant matter and small invertebrates. In aquariums, they can be fed a diet of high-quality flake food, pellets, frozen, and live foods to ensure their nutritional needs are met. Supplementing their diet with vegetables like peas or blanched zucchini can also be beneficial.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information about the specific reproductive habits and dimorphism of Metzia Lineata is limited. Like many cyprinid species, they are likely to exhibit typical egg-scattering spawning behavior. Dimorphic differences, if present, may include subtle variations in body size and coloration between males and females.

Habitat and Distribution

Metzia Lineata is primarily distributed in southern China, including regions such as the Pearl River system, Guangxi, Guizhou, Yunnan, and Guangdong provinces. It is also found in locations like Hainan Island, Hong Kong, and northern Vietnam, particularly in the Red River basin. The species inhabits a range of freshwater habitats with slow to still waters and abundant vegetation, coexisting with various sympatric species within its ecosystem.