The High fin loach, scientifically known as Myxocyprinus asiaticus, is a large freshwater fish belonging to the family Catostomidae (Chinese suckers), commonly called the Chinese High-Fin Banded Shark. Despite its common names, it is neither a true shark nor a loach.
Key Facts
• Origin: Native to the Yangtze River Basin in China.
• Size: Grows very large, reaching up to 2 to 4.5 feet (60 cm to 1.35 m) in length.
• Lifespan: Can live for 10 to 30 years with proper care.
• Appearance: Juveniles feature a tall, sail-like dorsal fin and striking dark bands on a lighter body. As they mature, they elongate, lose the dramatic high fin, and turn a more uniform dark brown or purplish color (males can develop reddish coloring during breeding season).
• Temperament: Peaceful and gentle.
• Diet: Omnivorous/herbivorous; they graze on algae, plant matter, small invertebrates, and accept sinking pellets or vegetables like peas and broccoli.
Care and Housing
• Tank or Pond Requirements: Due to their massive adult size, they are completely unsuitable for standard home aquariums and require very large setups or temperate outdoor koi/goldfish ponds with good water flow and oxygenation.
• Temperature: They are cold-tolerant and thrive in temperate water.
SKU: RT-30
