Edit Hemimyzon formosanus
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Name
Scientific name
Hemimyzon formosanus
Described by
Authority Boulenger, Year 1894, Bracketed
Family
Balitoridae
Common names
Not recorded
Photograph credits
All 2 credited
Summary
Hemimyzon formosanus is a balitorid loach endemic to Taiwan, most abundant in rivers draining the western slopes of the Central Mountain Ra…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
100mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 120 cm, Minimum depth 30 cm, Water movement High: fast-flowing river or riffle
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 16–22°C, pH 6.5–8
Hardness
2–15dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Peaceful
Social needs
A shoal or group
Community suitability
Not for a community
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Taiwan, Choshui, Danshui, Houlong, Ilan, Kaoping, Taan, Tachia, Tadu, Touchien, Tsengwen, Zhongkong
Writing
Etymology
Hemimyzon: from the Greek hemisus, meaning 'one half', and Greek myzo, meaning 'to suckle'. formosanus: 'native to Formosa', i.e., Taiwan.
Distribution
Endemic to Taiwan where it's found most abundant in river systems draining the western slopes of the island's Central Mountain Range, plus a few northern drain…
Habitat
Restricted to shallow, fast-flowing, highly-oxygenated headwaters and minor tributaries characterised by stretches of riffles and runs broken up by pools or ca…
Aquarium size
An aquarium with base dimensions of at least 120 ∗ 30 cm or equivalent is recommended.
Maintenance
Most importantly the water must be clean and well-oxygenated so we suggest the use of an over-sized filter as a minimum requirement. Turnover should ideally be…
Water conditions
Temperature: For general care 16 – 22 °C is recommended but it can withstand warmer conditions provided dissolved oxygen levels are maintained. pH: 6.5 – 8.0 H…
Diet
Much of the natural diet is likely to be composed of benthic algae plus associated micro-organisms which are rasped from solid surfaces. In captivity it will a…
Behaviour and compatibility
Largely peaceful although its environmental requirements limit the choice of suitable tankmates somewhat, so research your choices before purchase in order to …
Sexual dimorphism
Unconfirmed but as in related genera adult females should be heavier-bodied and a little larger than males.
Reproduction
Presumably a seasonal spawner in nature but nothing has been recorded in aquaria.
Notes
Hemimyzon spp. are rare in the aquarium trade and only turn up occasionally, most often among shipments of other wild-caught fishes from their native waters. T…
References
References
6 on this profile