Petruichthys brevis is a species of loach that originates from Burma. Here it occurs only in Inle Lake. The species attains a length of only 4-5 cm and thus belongs to the small species of fish. In contrast to most other species of loach, this one is a free swimming, schooling species. The swimming behaviour is similar to that of the penguin tetra (Thayeria boehlkei), eg the fish prefer to swim in a head-up position. The caudal peduncle is slightly snapped off, an adaption to the special swimming style.
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis10.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis1.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis11.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis2.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis4.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis9.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis5.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis3.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis6.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis8.jpg)
![](https://www.aquariumglaser.de/wp-content/uploads/478003-petruichthys-brevis7.jpg)
Petruichthys brevis can be bred quite easily in aquaria. The fish spawn among fine underwater plants. Males are smaller, have longer pectoral fins and usually a longitudinal stripe on the side, while females grow larger and have a spotted pattern.
Lake Inle has comparatively hard water, so most types of tap water are perfectly suited for keeping this fish. The water temperature can be between 16 and 26°C what makes a heater unnecessary in living rooms.
For our customers: the fish have code 478003 on our stocklist. Please note the we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer