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Epalzeorhynchus bicolor, Smith, 1931

Origin: Thailand

Etymology: bicolor, refers to the two colors, red and black in the fish.

Synonyms: Labeo bicolor, Smith, 1931.

First European import: Germany, 1952, By the firm Aquarium Hamburg.

First bred by: Hentschel, 1964.

Description: See pictures.

Care: Epalzeorhynchus bicolor requires larger tanks with a sandy soil. It's best to keep a single fish in a tank, since the fish are very territorial and aggressiv. Lots of hidouts and tempered light are appreciated, especially if created with driftwood and densely planted zones. A dark soil will enhance coloration in the fish. The fish can get really old, over 14 years, and as they get older they get more intolerant also towards other fish. The fish will inhabit the lower and middle regions of the tank. Not very particular towards waterconditions, although soft acidic water contributes to the animals well being.

Temperature: 22-26 degrees.

Feeding: Omnivorous, all food is taken including vegetables.

Size: Up to 12 cm, although 17 cm has also been reported.

pH: 6.0-7.5

Breeding: Really difficult since the fish are extremely aggressiv towards eachother. Epalzeorhynchus bicolor can be spawned at 7 cm already.Tank should be large enough to let both the male and the female establish a territorium. Soft, acidic water, and a temperature of 27-28 degrees, combined with frequent waterchanges,may induce spawning. Prior to spawning the fish will develop white spots on the body, which looks a bit like Ich. The fish will spawn in caves, fry hatch in 2 days, and are free swimming after another 2 days.

Sexual dimorphism:Females are more greyish, and a bit larger, males are deep black.

Prices:unk

Additional:

Picture references:Pictures: E. Naus

References: Baensch, H. A., Riehl, R.(1982): Aquarien Atlas I. Mergus Verlag, Melle, Germany.(click on the link to buy this book)Hoedeman, J. J.(1968): Aquariumvissen encyclopedie 2. Elsevier Nederland B. V., Amsterdam, The Netherlands.