Chinese High Fin Banded Shark - Myxocyprinus Asiaticus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Chinese High Fin Banded Shark (Myxocyprinus Asiaticus) is a stunning species that boasts striking, divergent colours, with juveniles being particularly eye-catching. Unfortunately, some fish keepers acquire these young specimens without fully understanding the requirements needed to care for them throughout their adult life. These docile, slow-moving bottom-dwellers are an ideal addition to any community tank, provided they are transferred to much larger living spaces as they grow, as they can reach lengths of over three feet. While they can be kept individually, they are frequently held in small shoals within an aquarium habitat.
The selection of embellishments for the aquatic environment, while significant, assumes a secondary role in comparison to the pivotal aspects of water quality optimization and the creation of an ample open expanse conducive to unhindered swimming activity. Nevertheless, if one possesses the capacity to orchestrate both the allocation and adornment of an adequately spacious aquarium, the species would ideally thrive within an arrangement crafted to evoke the semblance of a flowing river.
A Substrate characterized by an assortment of rocks and gravel in varying dimensions, interspersed with substantial water-worn boulders, can be judiciously employed. Additionally, the inclusion of a few well-placed driftwood branches would further enhance the overall composition, contributing to a visually appealing and ecologically appropriate habitat for the species.
The optimal well-being of the Hi-Fin Banded Shark is contingent upon the stringent management of organic waste accumulation within its aquatic habitat. Thus, the continual maintenance of pristine water quality stands as a fundamental prerequisite for its thriving. Furthermore, the species exhibits heightened performance within an environment characterized by elevated levels of dissolved oxygen and a controlled degree of water circulation.
To effectively establish these conducive conditions, the integration of external filtration systems and strategically positioned powerheads becomes essential. These components operate synergistically to achieve the intended outcome, safeguarding the species' health and promoting its overall vitality within the aquarium setting.
Juvenile Chinese High-fin banded Sharks feature light-coloured bodies with three thick, slanting dark brown to black bands that deviate towards the rear of the fish and a high triangular dorsal fin that extends to the back of the anal fin. Their colours change with their moods, and as they grow into adulthood, they become darker, lose their white stripes, and their bodies become more elongated, resulting in the loss of their distinctive high dorsal fin.
Despite their name, the High-fin Banded Shark is not related to sharks, although juveniles do bear a slight resemblance. These fish possess full, fleshy lips with small papillae and are considered true suckerfish, lacking teeth in their mouth, with a single row of pharyngeal teeth located in the back of their throat resembling a comb. Overall, the Hi-Fin Banded Shark is a fascinating species to observe, boasting unique characteristics and striking colouration.
Chinese High Fin Banded Shark Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Accurately identifying male from female Chinese High Fin Banded Sharks is best performed during the breeding season when distinguishing characteristics are most apparent. Males showcase more intense red colouration on their flanks, whereas females tend to exhibit a dark purple colouration and develop a broad vertical reddish area along their bodies.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Myxocyprinus Asiaticus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1865 |
| Other Names | Chinese Sailfin Sucker, Chinese banded shark, Banded loach, High-fin Loach, Chinese High-fin Sucker, Asian Sucker |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Catostomidae |
| Genus | Myxocyprinusus |
| Origins | China |
| Max Size | 100 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Loners |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 15 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 4 - 20 |
| TDS | 36 -357 |
| ℉ | 65 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 18 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Chinese High Fin Banded Sharks are native to the Yangtze River system in China. These unique fish can be found in the upper and lower regions of large streams and channels, including the main tributary, the Min River. Juvenile Chinese High-fin Banded Sharks inhabit shallow, slow-flowing, highly aerated mountain streams with a rocky substrate, while the adults prefer the deeper areas.
These incredible creatures are included in the China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals as a second state-protected animal. Unfortunately, the population of the Chinese High-fin Banded Shark has already disappeared from the Min River due to various factors such as overfishing, pollution, the introduction of exotic species, and the construction of dams that impede their migratory paths.
As responsible stewards of our environment, it's essential that we take steps to protect these magnificent creatures and their natural habitats. By promoting sustainable fishing practices and reducing pollution, we can help ensure the survival of the Chinese High-fin Banded Shark for generations to come.
Breeding
There is currently no established method for breeding Chinese High Fin banded Sharks in a home aquarium. In their natural habitat, these sharks reach sexual maturity at approximately six years of age and undertake annual migrations into shallow, fast-flowing headwaters for spawning, typically occurring between February to April. In autumn, they return to the main river channels.
To date, there are no documented instances of successful breeding by hobbyists, and it is not recommended to attempt breeding them at home. Commercial breeding of these sharks is primarily achieved through hormonal injections in industrial fish farms. To acquire these captivating creatures, it is best to purchase them online or from speciality fish stores that offer them at reasonable prices.
Diet & Feeding
The Chinese High Fin Banded Shark is an undemanding species and readily accepts a varied diet. Daily feeding of small live and frozen foods, such as Artemia, bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex, alongside high-quality pellets and flakes containing plant matter, such as Spirulina, is recommended. Given their affinity for algae, supplying them with algae wafers is also a wise option.
