Not difficult to keep in a well-maintained set-up, though we recommend aquascaping the tank to resemble a flowing stream or river with a substrate of variably-sized, water-worn rocks, sand, fine gravel and perhaps some small boulders.
This can be further furnished with driftwood roots or branches, and while the majority of aquatic plants will fail to thrive in such surroundings hardy types such as Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias spp. can be grown attached to the décor.
Since it naturally occurs in pristine habitats it’s intolerant to accumulation of organic pollutants and requires more-or-less spotless water in order to thrive.
An ideal addition to a peaceful community of riverine species alongside other schooling or shoaling cyprinids, plus botiid, cobitid, nemacheilid, and balitorid loaches.
If geography isn’t an issue it can actually be combined with most peaceful fish of a size too large to be considered food and that have a bold enough disposition to not be intimidated by its size and active nature.
As always, thorough research is the best way to avoid problems when selecting a compatible fish community.
It’s a schooling species by nature so ideally 8-10 specimens should be purchased.
Maintaining it in decent numbers will not only make the fish less skittish but will result in a more effective, natural looking display.
