Syncrossus hymenophysa

Alternative names

 * Banded Loach,, ,

Origin

 * Rivers and lakes in Borneo and Sumatra, Indonesia.

Sexing

 * Mature females have a rounder abdomen. Not known to be bred in captivity.

Tank compatibility

 * A large loach, this fish is best kept in a species set up as it can be aggressive. Will benefit being in groups of 5 or more to spread this aggression. Larger, fast swimming tough tank mates can be considered such as the larger species of Danio and Barb. Will also live with other larger loaches such as the Botia helodes, Botia berdmorei and Botia morleti.

Diet

 * Will accept sinking pellets as well as frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mosquito larvae.

Feeding regime

 * Twice a day.

Environment Specifics

 * A large spacious tank, 4ft minimum with view to upgrade, with fine soft substrate so as to not damage their barbels.

Behaviour

 * Aggressive and form a hierarchy in a group.

Identification

 * Can be easily mistaken with Botia helodes, the difference being the direction of stripes in front of the dorsal fin, the stripes start at the dorsal base and go down finishing inclined towards the head of the fish. It's the other way round on Botia helodes.