Scientific Name: Schistura kohchangensis (Smith, 1933)
Common name: Ornate Tiger sand loach.
Synonyms: Nemacheilus deignami, Nemacheilus kohchangensis
Distribution: Thailand, Cambodia.
Sexual Dimorphism: Males have suborbital flaps.
Maximum size: 3 inches
Similar to: Other Schistura species.
Care: Inhabit fast flowing streams over rock and boulders. Aquarium must duplicate these conditions as fish have high oxygen requirements.
See: http://www.loaches.com/hillstream_loaches.html for more detailed explanation.
All Schistura need excellent water-flow and aeration, numerous rocky hiding places provided by the nooks and crannies between pebbles and boulders. 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, Brine Shrimp, chopped Salad Shrimp, chopped earthworms. All Schistura are frenzied feeders and overfeeeding should be avoided.
Water parameters: pH:7.0 - 8.0. Hardness: Medium. Max dh:
Temperature: 68ºF to 78ºF (20-25.5°C)
Breeding: Has not been bred in aquaria.
Notes: This Schistura is noted for its very long barbels. A fairly common import, Shistura kohchangensis often comes in mixed with other species of Schistura. They are not an outwardly nasty fish, but their boisterous behaviour can be disturbing to other tank mates. Therefore, keep only with suitably robust tank-mates.
Caption: Schistura kohchangensis
Credit: Martin Thoene
Caption: Schistura kohchangensis
Credit: Martin Thoene
Caption: Schistura kohchangensis habitat.
Credit: Anuratana Tejavej