Annamia normani – Vietnamese Giraffe Loach
Hora first described the species in 1931. It belongs to the family Gastromyzontidae. The genus name refers to Annam, the old name for part of Vietnam. The species name honors the British ichthyologist John Roxborough Norman. The common name is Vietnamese Giraffe Loach.
Synonym: Parhomaloptera normani.
Description
Annamia normani has an elongated body with a flat belly. Its color is mainly brown with dark spots, and the fins are also brown with a similar pattern. It can reach a maximum total length of about 10 centimeters.
Differences between the sexes are unclear, but adult females are often slightly larger and plumper than males. These fish’s behavior is mostly peaceful, and they like to live in groups. They are bottom dwellers and can be somewhat shy.
Biotope
Annamia normani is found in the Mekong basin in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. It lives in fast-flowing mountain streams and rivers with rocky bottoms. There is little underwater vegetation, but the banks are often covered with trees.
They live in a tropical climate, and their habitats are threatened by hydroelectric projects.
Diet
In the wild, Annamia normani feeds on small benthic animals and cyanobacteria. In the aquarium, it can be fed spirulina, bloodworms, tubifex, and artemia.
The Aquarium
Aquarium Size and Setup
A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended for Annamia normani, especially if you want to keep a group of 8-10 fish. These fish need a strong water current, similar to their natural habitat of fast-flowing mountain streams.
The Aquarium
- Substrate: Use a mixture of sand and gravel with a layer of rounded stones and boulders. This will mimic their natural environment and provide places to graze.
- Decoration: Add driftwood and rocks to create hiding places. Although few plants grow in their natural habitat, sturdy plants such as Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias can be used and attached to the decoration.
- Lighting: Provide bright lighting to promote the growth of aufwuchs (algae and microorganisms), which are an important part of their diet.
Water parameters
- Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 16-22°C.
- pH: A pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal.
- Hardness: The water should be soft to medium hard, with a maximum hardness of 12 dH.
Water Movement and Filtration
- Water flow: A strong water flow is essential. Use a filter that can move 10-15 times the volume of the aquarium per hour.
- Oxygen: If necessary, use additional pumps or air stones to ensure a high oxygen content in the water.
Compatibiliteit
Annamia normani is peaceful and can coexist with other species with similar environmental requirements. Suitable tankmates include Barilius, Opsarius, Garra, and some gobies such as Rhinogobius and Sicyopterus. Avoid aggressive species that may disrupt the peaceful nature of Annamia normani.
Breeding in the Aquarium
There are no documented cases of successful captive breeding, so specific breeding conditions are unknown.
Particularities
Annamia normani is sensitive to transport and can be underweight when arriving at shops. Before buying them, ask if you can feed them. If they do not eat or are too thin, leave them in the shop. They must be well-fed and kept in optimal conditions.
Conclusion
Annamia normani is a challenging species for experienced aquarists due to its specific habitat requirements and sensitivity to transportation. Although it is peaceful and can live well with other peaceful species, it is important to mimic its natural environment as closely as possible in the aquarium.
Video
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
Emma Turner – Loaches.com
Nonn Panitvong – Siamensis.org
