For the first time we can offer these cute dwarf spined loach from Vietnam. They become (without caudal fin) at most 3,5 cm long. Lepidocephalichthys kranos was not recognized as an independent species until 2010. The species differences in Lepidocephalichthys are very subtle (otherwise they would have been scientifically identified earlier), but it is quite likely that our animals are L. kranos. The unique character of the species, the relatively large scales on the head (therefore kranos = helmet) are unfortunately not recognizable on the living animal.
In contrast to our native spined loach (Cobitis taenia), which is a typical inhabitant of gravelly soil, L. kranos tend to live in swampy terrain. The care of these dwarfs is very easy, one should offer them soft sandy ground, otherwise one can care for the sociable little animals excellently in each community aquarium with peaceful small fish.
For our customers: the fish have code 424102 on our stocklist. Please note that we supply wholesale only.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
