More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 40 litres / 10.57 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 3.5cm / 1.38inches |
| Temperature | 21°C / 69.80°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
General Description
The Aborichthys sp. 'AR02' is a small fish, measuring up to 3.5cm in size. It is classified under the order Cypriniformes and belongs to the Nemacheilidae family. This species is known to have a pattern with wide dark vertical bars running along its body and a single reddish bar on its caudal fin.
Aquarium Setup
To maintain Aborichthys sp. 'AR02' successfully, it is recommended to recreate a flowing stream or river environment in the tank. The setup should include a substrate of rocks, sand, and fine gravel, along with large water-worn boulders. Addition of driftwood branches to create hiding spots is advised. The species' tendency to dig suggests that decorations should be placed directly on the tank base before adding the substrate. Being intolerant to organic pollutants, the water must be clean with high oxygen levels and good water movement. Hardy plants like Java fern, Bolbitis, or Anubias species can be incorporated in the design.
Behaviour
The Aborichthys sp. 'AR02' is not particularly aggressive but has specialized requirements that make it unsuitable for a general community aquarium. It is best housed with species that can handle the necessary water movement. This fish benefits from being in groups of six or more specimens and may display some interesting social interactions.
Feeding and Diet
In its natural habitat, this species feeds on insect larvae, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton. In an aquarium, they will accept dried foods but should be regularly offered live or frozen fare like Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms. With a well-developed sense of taste, they are aggressive feeders and tend to become active during feeding sessions.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Information regarding the reproduction of Aborichthys sp. 'AR02' in aquarium settings is currently unreported. Sexual dimorphism includes adult females being fuller-bodied and slightly larger than males; other distinctions are not documented.
Habitat and Distribution
The Aborichthys sp. 'AR02' is found exclusively in the Raidak I River basin, flowing through Bhutan, the Indian state of West Bengal, and merging into northern Bangladesh. They inhabit shallow, swiftly-flowing waters with gravel and rock substrates, often covered in biofilm. Other species sharing its habitat include Acanthocobitis botia and Schistura scaturigina.