Schistura Savona

Datasheet

General Description

The Schistura Savona, commonly known as the Half-Banded Loach, is a species of fish belonging to the Nemacheilidae family under the order Cypriniformes. It is frequently found in the aquarium trade and is recognizable by its distinct color pattern of thin yellowish bars on a dark upper body and whitish lower portion. This species is part of the Schistura genus, which is the most species-rich among nemacheilid loaches, with over 190 members known and more continually being identified.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for the Schistura Savona requires attention to detail. It thrives best in an environment resembling a flowing stream or river, featuring a substrate composed of rocks, sand, fine gravel, and water-worn boulders. Adding driftwood branches can provide hiding spots and shade. While most aquatic plants struggle in such conditions, robust varieties like Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias species can be attached to the decor. Adequate dissolved oxygen levels and mild water movement are crucial, necessitating the use of power filters, powerheads, or airstones. Regular water changes of 30-50% tank volume per week are recommended to maintain pristine water quality.

Behaviour

The Half-Banded Loach is not highly aggressive and can coexist in a community aquarium, provided tankmates are chosen carefully. While it does not school, it tends to display better behavior when kept with conspecifics and ample hiding spots. The presence of compatible species such as Danio, Devario, Pethia, Puntius, and Rasbora can positively impact the confidence of benthic species. Avoid pairing it with similar-shaped relatives except in larger tanks. Overall, aggression levels are minimal when space and cover are plentiful.

Feeding and Diet

Schistura Savona is an omnivorous species, with its diet primarily comprising small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton, supplemented with minimal plant matter and detritus. In captivity, it readily accepts appropriately sized dried foods but thrives on a diet rich in small live or frozen fare such as Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms. Regularly feeding these protein-rich options enhances the fish's coloration and overall health.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the specific reproductive habits of Schistura Savona is currently unavailable. In terms of sexual dimorphism, adult females typically exhibit slightly larger and heavier body proportions compared to males.

Habitat and Distribution

Nemacheilus savona is known to inhabit environments characterized by temperate climates, heavy rainfall, and distinct monsoon seasons. The species is found across a variety of Ganges tributaries in regions ranging from Uttar Pradesh to West Bengal and Assam states in India, with recorded occurrences in Nepal and Bangladesh. Natural habitats consist of streams with sandy substrates and clear water, often shared with a diverse range of other aquatic species.