Cryptotora thamicola (Kottelat, 1988) Cave angel fish |
photo by
Panitvong, N. |
Family: | Balitoridae (River loaches) | |||
Max. size: | 2.84 cm SL (male/unsexed) | |||
Environment: | demersal; freshwater, potamodromous | |||
Distribution: | Asia: Tham Susa and Tham Mae Lana in Thailand. | |||
Diagnosis: | Dorsal soft rays (total): 13-13; Anal soft rays: 8-8. Absence of eyes; body naked, colorless; 15-16 branched pectoral rays; 10 branched pelvic rays; and two barbels at each corner of mouth (Ref. 37846). Lacks melanin (Ref. 42927). | |||
Biology: | Restricted to subterranean waters (Ref. 12041). Found on a ledge apparently climbing up a small waterfall about 0.6 km from the cave entrance (Ref. 37846). Prefers fast moving waters on rocky substrates (Ref. 42927). Lacks melanin, is anophthalmic and appears indifferent to light stimulus (Ref. 42927). | |||
IUCN Red List Status: | Vulnerable (VU); Date assessed: 23 February 2011 (B2ab(iii); D2) Ref. (130435) | |||
Threat to humans: | harmless | |||
Country info: |
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