Nemacheilus Spiniferus

Datasheet

General Description

Nemacheilus Spiniferus, a rare species in the aquarium trade, belongs to the N. selangoricus group characterized by distinct body patterns and scale arrangements. It is most similar to N. selangoricus but can be differentiated by features such as the number and width of dark bars on its flanks. This species typically grows up to 5.5 cm and is classified under the Nemacheilidae family. Its distribution covers regions in Borneo, including Sarawak, Kalimantan Barat, and Kalimantan Timur, with habitat preferences for shallow, flowing forest streams.

Aquarium Setup

Maintaining Nemacheilus Spiniferus in home aquariums requires mimicking its natural habitat with a setup that resembles a flowing stream or river. The tank should have a substrate of rocks, sand, and gravel, along with driftwood branches for shelter. Incorporating hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum or Anubias is advisable. It thrives in well-oxygenated water with moderate water movement, necessitating the use of power filters or airstones. Regular water changes of 30-50% tank volume help prevent organic pollutants and ensure water quality.

Behaviour

N. Spiniferus thrives in the company of peaceful, open water-dwelling cyprinids and appreciates being maintained in groups of four or more individuals. It is peaceful with conspecifics but may display territorial behavior towards aggressive tank mates. The species shows confidence in presence of compatible tank mates like rheophilic loaches or benthic cyprinids, fostering a harmonious aquarium environment.

Feeding and Diet

As omnivores, Nemacheilus species have a diet primarily consisting of small insects, worms, and zooplankton, with occasional plant matter consumed from stomach contents of prey. In captivity, offering a varied diet of live and frozen foods such as Daphnia, bloodworms, and Artemia is recommended for optimal coloration and health. While they accept dried foods, these should not be the sole food source to ensure proper nutrition.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Limited information is available on the reproduction of N. Spiniferus in aquarium settings. Mature males can be distinguished by the presence of a suborbital flap and tubercles on the pectoral-fin rays. Adult females tend to be slightly larger and heavier-bodied compared to males.

Habitat and Distribution

Nemacheilus Spiniferus is commonly found in shallow, flowing forest streams with clear to slightly tannin-stained water. Its distribution includes regions in Sarawak, Borneo, the Kapuas River system in Kalimantan Barat, and the Malinau River drainage in Kalimantan Timur. The species shares its habitat with other fish species like Garra borneensis and Rasbora elegans in these regions.