Schistura Polytaenia

Datasheet

General Description

Schistura Polytaenia is a member of the Nemacheilidae family, specifically classified under Cypriniformes. This species, with an average size of 5.0cm, displays unique characteristics typical of the Schistura genus, such as dark coloration with regular bars and a diverse body pattern. It is predominantly found in flowing streams and areas near waterfalls, with some cave-dwelling populations showing reduced pigmentation and blindness. The species is noted for its distinctive morphological features, including a moderately arched mouth and various caudal fin shapes.

Aquarium Setup

To create a suitable habitat for Schistura Polytaenia, a tank mimicking a flowing stream should be set up with substrates like rocks, sand, and fine gravel. Incorporating water-worn boulders and driftwood branches can provide hiding spots and shaded areas in the tank. While most aquatic plants may struggle in this environment, hardy species such as Microsorum, Bolbitis, and Anubias can be incorporated. Maintaining a high level of dissolved oxygen with water movement is essential, requiring the use of power filters, powerheads, or airstones. Regular weekly water changes of 30-50% of the tank volume are recommended to prevent the accumulation of organic pollutants.

Behaviour

Schistura Polytaenia tends to coexist well with peaceful, open water-dwelling cyprinids in aquarium settings. While they are generally peaceful, some members of the Schistura genus can be territorial or aggressive, especially in smaller tanks. In larger aquariums, a combination of Schistura Polytaenia with compatible species like balitorids and certain cyprinids may be viable. The species thrives in environments with a high concentration of dissolved oxygen, resembling their natural habitats in flowing streams.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Schistura Polytaenia primarily consumes small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton, with minimal plant matter intake. In aquariums, they accept dried foods but should be provided with a varied diet consisting of small live and frozen foods like Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms to enhance coloration and overall condition. Regular feeding with live and frozen fare is recommended to meet their nutritional needs adequately.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Limited information is available about the reproductive behavior of Schistura Polytaenia. Adult females of this species are likely slightly larger and heavier-bodied than males, a common sexual dimorphism observed in many congeners. While some male Nemacheilus species exhibit specific physical characteristics during breeding, such details are unknown for Schistura Polytaenia.

Habitat and Distribution

Schistura Polytaenia is known to inhabit the type locality, a tributary of the Irrawaddy River in Tengchong County, Yunnan Province, southwestern China. The species is adapted to flowing streams with high dissolved oxygen levels, typical of their natural habitats in the region. The nemacheilid loach, Schistura Polytaenia, represents the rich biodiversity found in Eurasia, particularly in areas like the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and China. Its preference for clear, well-oxygenated waters makes it a remarkable species in its native distribution.