Schistura Kohchangensis

Datasheet

General Description

The Schistura Kohchangensis, also known as the Ornate Tiger Sand Loach, is a species of loach belonging to the Nemacheilidae family. Measuring up to 7.5cm in size, this species displays a color pattern of 10-12 dark brown vertical bars, split vertically, and distinctive fin ray counts. It is distinguished by a combination of various morphological characteristics, with males typically exhibiting a suborbital flap and no median notch in the lower jaw.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, the Ornate Tiger Sand Loach should be housed in a tank mimicking a flowing stream or river environment. The ideal setup includes a substrate of rocks, sand, fine gravel, and water-worn boulders. Providing driftwood branches for shelter and creating broken lines of sight is recommended. Hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias species can be incorporated, and ensuring proper water conditions with a high level of dissolved oxygen and moderate water movement is essential. Regular water changes of 30-50% tank volume are vital to maintain pristine water quality.

Behaviour

While not notably aggressive, the Ornate Tiger Sand Loach requires special consideration when selecting tankmates due to its territorial nature. Slow-moving or long-finned species should be avoided to prevent fin nipping. Suitable companions include fish from similar biotopes such as Danio, Devario, and Rasbora species. Although not gregarious, a group of these loaches can be kept together in a well-structured tank with ample rocky hiding spots. However, territorial disputes may occur, especially in smaller or sparsely decorated tanks.

Feeding and Diet

Schistura Kohchangensis is an omnivorous species that primarily feeds on small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, they accept dried foods but thrive on a varied diet that includes small live and frozen foods like Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms. Offering a mix of live and prepared foods helps maintain the health and vibrant coloration of these loaches.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Details about the reproductive behavior of Ornate Tiger Sand Loach remain unreported. Sexual dimorphism is observable, with males possessing a suborbital flap and thickened pectoral-fin rays with tiny tubercules. Gravid females tend to be slightly thicker-bodied, indicating potential differences in appearance based on gender and reproductive status.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Schistura Kohchangensis inhabits shallow, fast-flowing streams with substrates of gravel, rocks, and boulders. They can also adapt to isolated stagnant pools during dry periods. Found in southeastern Thailand and southwestern Cambodia, specifically in areas like Koh Chang island, Chon Buri, and the Cardamon mountain range, these loaches prefer well-oxygenated waters typical of their native environments.