Dwarf Chain Loach - Ambastaia Sidthimunki : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The charming and charismatic Dwarf Chain Loach (Ambastaia Sidthimunki) is a captivating addition to any community aquarium. It is a peaceful, small and active fish which can adapt to different water conditions and is relatively easy to keep. Sadly, in its native Thailand, it is considered to be Critically Endangered due to overfishing and habitat loss. However, thanks to breeding efforts in the Far East, this species is now more accessible in the aquarium hobby, with wild stocks being left to recover. Dwarf Chain Loaches are social and prefer to be kept in groups of at least five individuals.
Dwarf Chain Loaches present themselves as suitable inhabitants for fully-planted aquariums due to their diminutive proportions and preference for midwater swimming. In an effort to create a naturalistic setting, a substrate composed of sand or fine gravel, complemented by the inclusion of sleek rocks, stones, and the graceful presence of driftwood roots and branches, can be thoughtfully arranged.
The lighting regime may be characterized by a subdued intensity tailored to accommodate the growth of robust plant species capable of flourishing under such conditions. These loaches exhibit a proclivity for exploration, warranting consideration for their preference to navigate intricate spaces. Consequently, items with sharp edges should be eschewed, and openings of dimensions suitable for ensnarement should be adequately sealed. Ensuring a secure and snug-fitting cover is also imperative.
While Dwarf Chain Loaches do not necessitate vigorous water currents, they do manifest an affinity for well-oxygenated water with moderate flow. The species holds an intolerance toward the buildup of organic waste, necessitating an environment of pristine water quality for their optimal development. Consequently, their introduction should be reserved for established, mature aquariums, as these conditions are best suited to their acclimatization.
Routine maintenance underscores the significance of weekly water changes amounting to 30 to 50 per cent of the tank's volume as a measure to preserve the health and equilibrium of the aquatic ecosystem.
The Dwarf Chain Loach has a striking golden-silver body with chocolate markings in a chain-ladder-type pattern running along its entire upper half. The dark markings may be square or circular, and the degree to which they extend into the belly can vary from individual to individual.
Dwarf Chain Loach Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
To distinguish between male and female Dwarf Chain Loach, one can observe a few subtle but distinctive physical differences. Males tend to exhibit slightly elongated noses and noticeably thick fleshy lips, while females generally have fuller bodies and grow slightly larger than their male counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Ambastaia Sidthimunki |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1959 |
| Other Names | Dwarf Loach, Ladderback Loach, Pygmy Loach, Chain Loach, Chain Botia |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Botiidae |
| Genus | Ambastaia |
| Origins | Thailand |
| Max Size | 6.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 10 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 3 - 12 |
| TDS | 18 - 215 |
| ℉ | 75 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22- 27 |
Natural Habitat
The Dwarf Chain Loach is found in the lush lands of Thailand and Northern India. It boasts a limited distribution, being exclusively confined to the Mae Klong River Basin in Western Thailand and the Yom River in northern Thailand, which is an upper tributary within the Chao Phraya River system. Inhabiting the slow-flowing areas of forested, well-oxygenated headwaters, this species prefers clear water and a substrate of rock and sand.
It finds comfort in the company of submerged leaf litter and driftwood, which are quintessential to its habitat. However, it's with a heavy heart that we share that the Dwarf Chain Loach has been classified as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List. The construction of hydroelectric dams in the 1980s and 1990s has put the survival of this magnificent species at risk. Join us in the battle to protect and preserve the Dwarf Chain Loach for generations to come.
Breeding
Regrettably, it is exceedingly challenging to breed Dwarf Chain Loaches in captivity. There are very few reports of successful breeding by individual aquarists, possibly due to their seasonal migratory spawning patterns in the wild. Commercial breeding of this species for the aquarium hobby usually involves the use of hormones to induce spawning. As a result, captive-bred specimens are prevalent in the trade rather than those bred by hobbyists.
Diet & Feeding
The Dwarf Chain Loach is an adaptable fish when it comes to feeding, as they are not particularly fussy eaters. To keep them healthy, a diverse diet is crucial, which should include high-quality dry foods, live or frozen bloodworm, Tubifex, Daphnia, and Artemia. Moreover, fresh fruits and vegetables like melon, cucumber, courgette, or blanched spinach can also be incorporated into their diet. Although loaches feed on aquatic snails to some degree, it is worth noting that they are not molluscivores and should never be relied on for pest control.
Frequently asked questions
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