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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | N A |
| Maximum Size | 8.0cm / 3.15inches |
General Description
The Schistura oedipus, also known as Noemacheilus oedipus by Kottelat, belongs to the family Nemacheilidae within the Cypriniformes order. This species, with an average size of 8.0cm, is characterized by its unique morphological features and adaptation to a subterranean lifestyle. While exhibiting distinct traits like a moderately arched mouth and diverse color patterns, its conservation status as protected by Thai law makes it unsuitable for aquarium keeping.
Aquarium Setup
The tank setup for Schistura oedipus is not applicable due to its protected conservation status. As a troglomorphic species, it is best kept in its natural habitat within subterranean streams, which are often interrupted by cascades and provide the necessary environmental conditions for the fish.
Behaviour
Specific behavioral characteristics of Schistura oedipus are not readily available. However, being a troglomorphic fish adapted to subterranean environments, it likely displays behaviors suited for such habitats, such as low population size, restricted distribution, and potential tolerance to food scarcity.
Feeding and Diet
Schistura oedipus is said to feed on aquatic microorganisms and organic detritus present in its natural subterranean habitat. This diet reflects the species' adaptation to foraging for limited food sources typically found in caves and underground streams.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Male Schistura oedipus may exhibit sexual dimorphism by possessing a thickened second pectoral-fin ray, a characteristic identified by Kottelat in 1988. Reproduction specifics for this species in natural habitats remain largely undocumented.
Habitat and Distribution
The distribution of Schistura oedipus is restricted to a series of caves within the Pang Mapha karst formation in the Mae Hong Son province of northwestern Thailand. Found in five caves, these fish populations are genetically isolated, with distinct groups identified by Borowsky and Mertz in 2005. Streams from these caves drain into the Nam Lang and Nam Khong rivers, forming unique ecosystems shaped by their subterranean geography.