Schistura Balteata

Datasheet

Behaviour

The Sumo Loach is not particularly aggressive compared to other members of the genus but is generally unsuitable for the community aquarium due to its specialized needs. Tankmates need to be carefully selected, avoiding slow-moving or long-finned species that may struggle with the necessary water movement and risk having their fins nipped. Placid bottom-dwellers like Corydoras or Pangio spp. are also not recommended as they can be easy targets for the territorial Sumo Loach. Ideal tankmates include species that inhabit similar biotopes in nature, such as Danio, Devario, and smaller Barilius, Pethia, Puntius, and Rasbora spp. Additionally, robust balitorids from genera like Pseudogastromyzon, Beaufortia, or Sewellia can also be suitable companions. While keeping a group of Sumo Loaches together is feasible, it is recommended to provide plenty of rocky structures and broken lines of sight to reduce aggression. Inadequately decorated tanks may lead to heightened conspecific aggression.

Feeding and Diet

Sumo Loaches are omnivorous, with their diet primarily consisting of small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton, supplemented with some plant matter and organic detritus. While they can accept dried foods, a varied diet of live and frozen food such as Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms is essential for optimal coloration and health. In tanks with flowing water, they display efficient feeding behavior, swiftly grabbing passing morsels.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the reproduction of the Sumo Loach is currently undocumented. Mature males of Schistura species typically exhibit enlarged mouthparts and cheeks, especially when viewed from above, distinguishing them from females who tend to be slightly thicker-bodied, particularly when carrying eggs.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Sumo Loaches inhabit clear, well-oxygenated, fast-flowing waters in watersheds and headwaters, often shaded by forest cover, with a substrate of sand, gravel, rocks, and boulders. These loaches are commonly found in high-gradient streams and even cascades, typically devoid of aquatic plants. They may also persist in isolated pools during dry periods. Indigenous to Myanmar's Tenasserim Division and Thailand's Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi provinces, the Sumo Loach is part of the diverse Nemacheilidae family, thriving in various Eurasian regions with a high species richness concentration in India, Southeast Asia, and China.

Aquarium Setup

To successfully maintain Sumo Loaches, replicate a flowing stream or river environment within the aquarium. Utilize a substrate varying in sizes of rocks, sand, and gravel, with water-worn boulders scattered throughout. Incorporate driftwood branches to create sheltered areas and broken lines of sight, beneficial for these reclusive loaches. Hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias attached to the decor can thrive. To enhance the well-being of Sumo Loaches, ensure a clean tank environment, with high oxygen levels and water movement. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are crucial for their health and vitality.