4 cm specimen from a shallow forest stream, Singapore.
Family : BALITORIDAE
Species : Nemacheilus selangoricus
Maximum Length : 6-9 cm
References : F1 |
The Grey-banded Loach
inhabits clear, forest streams : it prefers free-flowing water, and a sandy
substrate free of leaf litter and vegetation.
Its body-shape is elongate, and oval in cross-section. Larger specimens may
reach up to 9 cm in length, however most adults specimens are around a
maximum 6cm or so. Its banded patterning helps to camouflage it against
sun-dappled stream beds. Benthic in habit, it feeds on aquatic invertebrates
and organic matter.
The species ranges from at least Southern Thailand, through Peninsular
Malaysia and Singapore to parts of Borneo and Indonesia. It has been
introduced to the waterways of other countries, such as the U.S, as a result
of the aquarium trade.
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