Scientific Name: Protomyzon whiteheadi (Vaillant, 1894)
Common name: Unknown
Synonyms: Homaloptera whiteheadi
Distribution: Northern Borneo
Sexual Dimorphism: unknown
Maximum size: 2 inches (5cm)
Similar to: Other Protomyzon species, Gastromyzon species
Care: Inhabit fast flowing highland streams over boulders. Aquarium must duplicate these conditions as fish have very high oxygen requirements. See Hillstream Loaches: The Specialists at Life in the Fast Lane for more detailed explanation.
With all sucker-type Hillstream species, care is broadly the same. All need excellent water-flow and aeration, numerous rocky hiding places and smooth pebbles and boulders to graze over. Lighting should be bright to encourage algal growth in the aquarium. Plants are not necessary as the fish do not normally encounter them in the wild, but they will help with water-quality. Suitable plants for high-flow environments are Anubias and Microsorium. These will grow on rockwork or driftwood.
Feeding: The diet in aquaria probably consists mostly of bloodworms and brine shrimp as well as some algae and prepared foods.
Water parameters: pH:7.0-8.0 Hardness: Medium Max dh:
Temperature: 72ºF to 79ºF(21-26°C)
Breeding: Not bred in aquaria.
Notes: Protomyzon whiteheadi as well as all the Protomyzon species, are not well known in the pet trade but may show up as a contaminant in shipments of other hillstream loaches, primarily the Gastromyzon group.
Caption: Protomyzon whiteheadi
Credit: Keith Martin-Smith
Resistance is futile. You will be assimilated.
