Gastromyzon Sp. 'Sk04'

Datasheet

General Description

The Gastromyzon sp. 'SK04' species belongs to the Gastromyzontidae family and is characterized by its unique morphological features suited for life in fast-flowing water. These fish have flattened bodies, horizontally oriented paired fins, and fused pelvic fins, enabling them to cling tightly to solid surfaces in their natural habitat. The Gastromyzon genus consists of various species groups, each identified based on distinct color patterns. Endemic to Borneo, these fish are typically found in swift, shallow streams with clear, oxygen-rich water, where they forage on benthic algae and microorganisms.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care of Gastromyzon sp. 'SK04', it is essential to maintain a clean and well-oxygenated aquarium environment. A suggested setup includes an over-sized filter with a turnover rate of 10-15 times per hour, supplemented by powerheads and airstones if needed. The tank should have a substrate of gravel or sand with water-worn rocks and pebbles, and aged driftwood for natural aesthetics. While aquatic plants can be included, adaptable genera like Microsorum and Anubias are recommended. Regular partial water changes are crucial, and surfaces can be allowed to grow aufwuchs, except on the viewing pane.

Behaviour

Gastromyzon sp. 'SK04' is not aggressive but has specific environmental requirements that limit suitable tankmates. They are territorial to some extent, with individuals showing varying levels of protectiveness over their space. These fish tend to thrive in loose aggregations, making it beneficial to keep a group of four or more for observing their intriguing behavior. Tankmates should be carefully selected to avoid larger, aggressive, or competitive fish, with compatible options including small cyprinids, stream-dwelling gobies, rheophilic catfishes, and certain loach species.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Gastromyzon spp. feed on benthic algae and associated microorganisms by rasping them from solid surfaces. In captivity, they accept high-quality dried foods, live or frozen bloodworms, and homemade gelatin-bound foods rich in fresh vegetables and Spirulina. To mimic their natural diet, maintaining a mature aquarium with algae-covered surfaces is vital. Additionally, providing a separate tank for growing algae can ensure a sustainable food source, especially in community tanks with herbivorous fish that consume algae quickly.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding Gastromyzon spp. in aquaria is challenging and has been rarely documented. Successful breeding attempts involved creating suitable breeding conditions, such as maintaining specific water temperatures and offering rich diets to induce spawning behavior. Adult females of Gastromyzon sp. 'SK04' are typically heavier and larger than males, with these differences more noticeable when viewed from above or below. After spawning, non-adhesive eggs hatch into tiny fry requiring specialized care, including a diet of infusoria due to their small size.

Habitat and Distribution

Gastromyzon sp. 'SK04' is exclusively found in the headwaters of the Sungai Amandit in the Meratus mountain range, Kalimantan Selatan province, Indonesian Borneo. Endemic to Borneo, these fish inhabit swift, shallow streams with gravel, rock, or boulder substrates covered in biofilm. They are commonly observed in partially shaded areas near cascades and waterfalls, where they cling to rocks and forage facing the water flow. Syntopic species in their habitat include Homalopteroides stephensoni, Garra borneensis, and Paracrossochilus vittatus.