Scientific name: Schistura spiesi (Vidthayanon & Kottelat, 2003)
Common name: None
Synonyms: None
Distribution: Tham Phra Wang Daeng cave in Thailand.
Sexual Dimorphism: Developed suborbital flap in Males. Males develop noticeable hump in back, behind nape.
Maximum size: 4.75 inches (11.9cm)
Similar to: Other cave Schistura Species
Care: Only lives in well-oxygenated, moderate flow in nature. A well-filtered aquarium with lots of hiding places and sand substrate is best.
Feeding: Probably would accept most aquarium foods offered - sinking catfish pellets, flake, frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, daphnia etc.
Water parameters: pH: 6-7.5 Hardness: Medium Max dh: 12
Temperature: 70ºF to 79ºF (21-26°C)
Breeding: None reported in aquarium.
Notes: Schistura spiesi is one of a few blind, cave dwelling Loach species. Its eyes become less visible as it grows. Due to its critical habitat needs, it is at risk from collection for aquaria so it is not recommended that it be considered for such.
However, blind cave loaches are known to have been imported into North America and it is possible they were this species. Its inclusion here is mainly out of interest. Pursuit of this loach for the aquarium trade is discouraged.
Caption: Schistura spiesi
Credit: Kamphol Udomritthiruj
Caption: Schistura spiesi
Credit: Kamphol Udomritthiruj
Caption: Schistura spiesi
Credit: Kamphol Udomritthiruj