Nemacheilus Binotatus

Datasheet

General Description

Nemacheilus binotatus, commonly known as the Two-stripe Loach, is a species belonging to the family Nemacheilidae within the order Cypriniformes. It is distinguished by its unique color pattern featuring two dark stripes along its body and small vertically-orientated spots near the dorsal and pectoral fins.

Aquarium Setup

The optimal tank setup for N. binotatus involves mimicking a flowing stream or river environment with a substrate of rocks, sand, gravel, and boulders. Addition of driftwood for shelter and attachment of hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum or Anubias is recommended. Good water movement, dissolved oxygen levels, and cleanliness are crucial, requiring power filters, powerheads, or airstones and regular water changes.

Behaviour

These loaches do well in the presence of peaceful, open water-dwelling cyprinids, preferring to be kept in groups. They are peaceful with conspecifics, benefiting from being in a school of four or more individuals.

Feeding and Diet

N. binotatus is an omnivorous species that primarily feeds on small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton. While they accept dried foods, their diet should include live or frozen fare like Daphnia or bloodworms for optimal coloration and health.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the reproduction of N. binotatus in aquarium settings is unknown. Males exhibit specific dimorphic features such as a suborbital flap and thickened pectoral-fin rays with tubercules, while females are slightly larger and heavier-bodied.

Habitat and Distribution

The Two-stripe Loach is native to the Mae Klong and Chao Phraya river systems in western and central Thailand. It is typically found in shallow, flowing streams with substrates of sand, gravel, rocks, and organic detritus, often coexisting with various fish species in these habitats.