Scientific Name: Erromyzon sinensis (Chen, 1980)
Common name: None
Synonyms: Protomyzon sinensis
Distribution: China.
Sexual Dimorphism: Unknown
Maximum size: 2.5 inches
Similar to: The Protomyzon species of Borneo with which it was formerly grouped.
Care: Inhabit fast flowing streams over boulders. Aquarium must duplicate these conditions as fish have very high oxygen requirements. See: http://www.loaches.com/hillstream_loaches.html for more detailed explanation.
With all sucker-type Hillstream species, care is broadly the same. All need excellent water-flow and aeration, numerous rocky hiding places and smooth pebbles and boulders to graze over. Lighting should be bright to encourage algal growth in the aquarium. Plants are not necessary as the fish do not normally encounter them in the wild, but they will help with water-quality. Suitable plants for high-flow environments are Anubias and Microsoreum. These will grow on rockwork or driftwood.
Feeding: Good quality flake, sinking pellets, algae wafers, thawed frozen Bloodworm, Mysis Shrimp, blanched Spinach, Kale, natural algae an advantage.
Water parameters: pH:7.0-8.0. Hardness: Medium. Max dh:
Temperature: 68ºF to 75ºF(20-23.8°C)
Breeding: There are no reports that this fish has been bred in the aquarium.
Notes: Similar to the Pseudogastromyzon species in behavior. Erromyzon sinensis is unusual for a sucker type hillstream in that its pectoral and pelvic fins are widely separated.This species tends to dig in the gravel searching for food, more than most hillstream species including Pseudogastromyson fasciatus. It is not a common import but may show up in pure shipments or as a contaminant with other Chinese hillstream loaches.
Caption:
Credit: Jim Powers
Caption:
Credit: Jim Powers
Caption:
Credit: Martin Thoene
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