Acanthocobitis Pavonacea

Datasheet

General Description

"Acanthocobitis Pavonacea, also known as the Peacock Loach, is a species of fish classified under the order Cypriniformes. It is not commonly found in the aquarium trade and is occasionally included in shipments of wild-caught fishes from northeast India. The species is sometimes sold under the names 'panther' or 'puma' loach. A. Pavonacea is distinguished by possessing 9-18½ branched dorsal-fin rays and a color pattern featuring an ocellus at the upper base of the caudal fin. Due to taxonomic distinctions, it is considered monotypic, containing only the species A. Pavonacea."

Aquarium Setup

"A proper aquarium setup for Acanthocobitis Pavonacea would involve providing plenty of hiding spots while ensuring that softer-leaved plants are not harmed. It is recommended to replicate a slow-moving or marginal section of a stream or river in the tank, complete with a sandy substrate, water-worn boulders, driftwood, roots, branches, and dried leaves. Adaptable plants such as Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias spp. can be added and bright lighting to promote aufwuchs growth. While high water movement is not crucial, the species thrives in a mature hill stream-type setup with a rocky aquascape."

Behaviour

"The Peacock Loach is reported to be bold but not aggressive in captivity. However, due to its adult size, it is advisable to avoid very small tankmates. Fish of similar size and from comparable environments, such as cyprinids and loaches, are suitable companions. Species like Acanthocobitis botia, Botia dario, and others from the Brahmaputra region are potentially compatible tankmates. Keeping a group of Peacock Loaches in a decent-sized tank has been suggested, although definitive confirmation is lacking."

Feeding and Diet

"Acanthocobitis Pavonacea is not herbivorous and primarily preys on insect larvae in its natural habitat. In an aquarium, it accepts sinking dried foods but should also be offered live and frozen fare like Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms. A varied diet is essential for maintaining the species in good health."

Reproduction & Dimorphism

"There are no documented records of Acanthocobitis Pavonacea reproducing in aquarium settings. Breeding success with related species typically involved a few fry appearing in larger, mature setups. Adult males of the species exhibit an enlarged suborbital flap and are noticeably slimmer compared to females."

Habitat and Distribution

"The species is restricted to the Brahmaputra River drainage in Assam State, northeastern India, and likely extends to the neighboring state of West Bengal. Some sources limit its distribution to the Brahmaputra and Ganges river basins in northern India and Bangladesh. Detailed information regarding its habitat preferences is currently unavailable."