Yasuhikotakia eos (Taki, 1972)
Sun loach
photo by Janiczak, B.J.

Family:  Botiidae (Pointface loaches), subfamily: Botiinae
Max. size:  11 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; freshwater
Distribution:  Asia: Mekong basin (Ref. 27732), Chao Phraya and Maeklong basins (Ref. 26336).
Diagnosis:  Has 10-11 branched dorsal rays, a large blackish blotch on the caudal peduncle; the caudal, dorsal, anal and pelvic fins with white distal margins and black subdistal margin; some specimens almost black in life (Ref. 27732). With well-developed papillae on each side of lower lip; large mental lobe and large ethmoid spine perpendicular to snout when viewed from above (Ref. 12693).
Biology:  Inhabits areas of boulders and cobble of rapidly flowing stretches of large and medium-sized rivers. Feeds mainly on mollusks and occasionally on other benthic invertebrates. Occasionally seen in the markets during the dry season. An extremely aggressive species which is often seen in the aquarium trade (Ref. 12693).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 16 November 2011 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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