Description
Acanthocobitis zonalternans
Acanthocobitis zonalternans can reach a total length of around 8 centimeters. Sexing them is easiest during mating season. Males get brighter colored fins, especially the dorsal fin has brighter colors.
Synonyms: Cobitis zonalternans, Nemacheilus zonalternans, Noemacheilus zonalternans, Nemacheilus phuketensis, Nemachilus zonalternans, Noemacheilus phuketensis
Origin
India, Thailand
Aquarium
This species belongs to what are called Loaches. They are subdivided into 3 groups. Acanthocobitis zonalternans is a Hilstream Loach which means that they live in reasonably fast flowing water. Their aquarium therefore preferably has a fair amount of current and which is also oxygen-rich. The substrate can consist of rounded stones interspersed with some sand. You can provide some wood and possibly plants to provide hiding places on the edges of the aquarium.
Water
Temperature: 18-25 degrees Celsius
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
GH:8 – 12
Like most fishes from fast flowing rivers and streams Acanthocobitis zonalternans is sensitive to water conditions. Make sure to have a tight schedule in maintenance, water changes and cleaning the substrate.
Diet
They will accept most types of food. Just make sure to provide a variety of foods like sinking wafers and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, blood worms, mysis and daphnia.
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
Mark Duffill
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