Jinshaia abbreviata — a Balitoridae from upper Yangtze, China, peaceful; territorial only over a favourite stone. Reaches 11.6–16.9 cm; keep one per stone field, or 3+ to spread territory. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
11.6–16.9 cm
Minimum tank
343 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling on rock surfaces
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial only over a favourite stone
Origin
upper Yangtze, China
Species overview
Jinshaia abbreviata, a member of the family Balitoridae, is native to upper Yangtze, China. Its sucker belly is made for mountain rapids — still, warm water suffocates it faster than any disease. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 11.6–16.9 cm. Keep one per stone field, or 3+ to spread territory. Provide strong flow, cool temperatures and mature algae-covered rockwork; keep it below 26 °C. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A solid choice for a well-planned community tank.
Native biotope
Habitat
Fast-flowing mountain streams, clinging to rocks
Flow
Very strong, highly oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Requires very high dissolved oxygen
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Bare rock and coarse gravel
Hardscape
Large smooth boulders
Plants
Minimal; algae-covered stones instead
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep one per stone field, or 3+ to spread territory