Scientific Name: Homaloptera yunnanensis (Chen, 1978)
Common name: None.
Synonyms: Balitoropsis yunnanensis
Distribution: Mekong Basin, China and Laos. Populations have been found in southeastern Thailand near its border with Cambodia.
Sexual Dimorphism: Females probably plumper all over than males.
Maximum size: 2.5 inches (7 cm)
Similar to: Other Homaloptera species.
Care: Inhabit fast flowing streams in riffles. Aquarium must duplicate these conditions as fish have very high oxygen requirements.
See: Hillstream Loaches: The Specialists at Life in the Fast Lane for more detailed explanation.
With all Homaloptera 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: Not bred in aquaria.
Notes: Homaloptera yunnanensis is an occasional import that often arrives in mixed shipments with Homaloptera smithi and zollingeri.
It is notable for it's dark dorsal surface spots, surrounded by lighter circles. It can be a very dark coloured fish, but depending upon the mood of the fish and its surroundings, they can change from light to dark quite rapidly.
Caption: Note colour differences.
Credit: Kamphol Udomritthiruj
Caption: Homaloptera yunnanensis
Credit: Kamphol Udomritthiruj
Caption: Newly captured Homaloptera yunnanensis.
Credit: Kamphol Udomritthiruj
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