Aborichthys aborensis

About This Species

Basic Description

The Abor Loach, also called the Red-finned loach, is a small, energetic, bottom-dwelling fish from Asia. As a freshwater species, it thrives in cooler, temperate aquarium settings. It's a fast swimmer that needs to be kept in small groups, but can be territorial towards its own kind, so provide plenty of hiding spots. These fish are known to jump, so a secure lid on the tank is essential. It is considered moderately difficult to keep.

Detailed Description

Native to fast-flowing Asian streams, the Abor Loach requires an environment with significant water movement and high oxygen levels to thrive. As an omnivore living on the substrate, its diet should be varied with sinking foods like pellets, wafers, and supplemented with frozen or live options. These loaches actively root through the substrate, consuming biofilm and searching for food, which may uproot delicate plants. While they must be kept in schools, their territorial nature necessitates a well-structured habitat with rocks and wood to break lines of sight and establish distinct territories.

Scientific Description

Aborichthys aborensis is a benthopelagic species from the Nemacheilidae family, adapted to riverine habitats with high water flow. Its physiology is suited for cooler water temperatures and a pH range from slightly acidic to neutral. Due to its high oxygen consumption and moderate metabolism, maintaining excellent water quality is paramount. It exhibits intraspecific aggression, a key social characteristic requiring complex environmental enrichment to mitigate stress within a group. Breeding in captivity is challenging and requires specialized conditions that replicate its natural spawning triggers. Its moderate waste production contributes a bioload that must be managed by adequate filtration.