More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 120 litres / 31.70 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.0cm / 3.94inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
General Description
Schistura spilota, commonly known as Spotted Loach, is a member of the Nemacheilidae family found in the upper Mae Nam Ping basin in Thailand. This species displays a distinctive color pattern with roundish blotches along its flanks and reddish caudal fins. With a maximum size of 10.0 cm, it is known for its feisty behavior and territorial nature, making it unsuitable for general community aquariums.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Schistura spilota, it is essential to mimic a flowing stream environment. A tank of at least 120 litres designed with a substrate of rocks, sand, fine gravel, and water-worn boulders is recommended. The addition of driftwood branches creates sheltered spots and broken lines of sight, with hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum or Anubias attached to the decor. Adequate dissolved oxygen, water movement, and cleanliness are crucial for their well-being.
Behaviour
Spotted Loaches are known to be territorial and may engage in occasional skirmishes, particularly in small or sparsely decorated tanks. Tankmates should be selected carefully, with a preference for species that inhabit similar biotopes, such as Danio, Rasbora, or Puntius spp. Despite being somewhat reclusive, a group of Spotted Loaches can be maintained together in a structured environment with rocky structures.
Feeding and Diet
Schistura spilota are omnivorous, primarily consuming small insects, worms, and crustaceans in their natural habitat. In captivity, they accept dried foods but should not be fed exclusively with them. Their diet should include small live or frozen fare like Daphnia and bloodworms to maintain optimal coloration and condition. A setup with moving water encourages active feeding behavior.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Information on the reproduction of Schistura spilota remains unrecorded. Sexing mature individuals can be challenging, but males often exhibit enlarged "cheeks," while females tend to be slightly thicker-bodied, especially when carrying eggs. Some species may show clear sexual dimorphism in certain traits.
Habitat and Distribution
These loaches are native to riffles and flowing stretches of well-oxygenated streams in the upper Mae Nam Ping basin in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. Often found in areas with high dissolved oxygen levels and diverse morphological characters, Schistura spilota represents one of the many species in the Nemacheilidae family, widely distributed across Eurasia.