Brown Fork Tail Loach - Vaillantella Cinnamomea Fish Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
The Brown Fork Tail Loach (Vaillantella Cinnamomea) belongs to a group of rare species often listed for importation but frequently fails to arrive as ordered. The global demand for these loaches is notably high, while the available supply remains limited. Their agile nature and elusive behaviour in the wild make them challenging to capture, potentially accounting for their higher market price.
To ensure the well-being of Brown Fork Tail Loaches, it is advisable to maintain them in sizable groups. However, it is important to note that they can display territorial tendencies towards their own species, necessitating the provision of multiple hiding places and visual barriers to break up lines of sight.
When selecting tankmates, opting for small and peaceful species is crucial, as more aggressive individuals may target the long dorsal and caudal fins of the Brown Fork-Tail Loach. Suitable companions may include smaller and more tranquil species such as Sumo Loaches, Indonesian Spirit Loaches, Rosy Loaches, small cyprinids like Danios and Rasboras, and small Rainbowfish species.
The ideal aquarium setup for Brown Fork Tail Loaches comprises a spacious and well-established aquarium with efficient filtration and a moderate water flow. Modifications to filter intakes may be necessary to safeguard these slender and inquisitive loaches.
To mimic their natural environment, it is recommended to furnish the tank with dark substrates such as sand or fine, smooth gravel, ample bogwood, dense plantings, and numerous nooks and crannies provided by rocky caves. Periodically introducing dried Indian Almond Leaves, which can be submerged to create a natural leaf litter, will offer the loaches a lovely hiding spot.
Similar to other fish inhabiting flowing freshwater environments, the Brown Fork Tail Loaches have a low tolerance for the accumulation of nitrates in the aquarium. Consequently, maintaining excellent water conditions through regular partial water changes is essential for their well-being.
The Brown Fork Tail Loach exhibits a light brown body with a subtle light yellow-brown dorsum. Additionally, they possess a distinctive black stripe running from the snout's tip, passing through the eye, and reaching the opercle. Two faint longitudinal stripes are also present on the anterior part of their body.
Availability
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Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Brown Fork Tail Loaches can present a formidable task; nonetheless, discerning features are more apparent in mature females, typically characterized by a more pronounced abdominal region compared to their male counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Vaillantella Cinnamomea |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1994 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Vaillantellidae |
| Genus | Vaillantella |
| Origins | Indonesia |
| Approx Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 8 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| GH | 2 - 10 |
| ℉ | 72 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Brown Fork Tail Loach is an indigenous species exclusive to the Mahakam River Basin located in Kalimantan Timur, Borneo, within the Southeast Asian region of Indonesia. These Loaches primarily occupy swiftly moving streams characterized by pristine water quality and ample leaf litter, particularly within secluded areas enveloped by lush forest surroundings.
Breeding
Regrettably, successful captive breeding of the Brown Fork Tail Loach has yet to be achieved, resulting in a scarcity of available information regarding their specific reproductive behaviours and habits.
Diet & Feeding
It is recommended to provide regular feedings of small frozen food items to sustain optimal nutrition for Brown Fork Tail Loaches. Suitable options include baby brine shrimp, cyclops, and daphnia. While it is possible to offer small sinking catfish pellets or finely powdered foods, it should be noted that these selective eaters may not readily adapt to these alternatives.
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Published: 06 Jan 2023
Last Updated: 22 Jul 2023