Sinobdella sinensis

Family: Mastacembelidae

Sinobdella sinensis — a Mastacembelidae from 中国, peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Reaches 15.8–23.2 cm; keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. 20–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
20–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
15.8–23.2 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates
Origin
中国

Species overview

Sinobdella sinensis, a member of the family Mastacembelidae, is native to 中国. Its calm temperament and broad diet make it one of the more forgiving residents of a community tank. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 15.8–23.2 cm. Keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. Stable water, regular partial changes and a varied diet cover nearly everything it needs. Maintain 20–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A solid choice for a well-planned community tank.

Native biotope

Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Robust schooling cyprinids — Add activity without conflict
Avoid keeping with
  • Much larger predators — Risk at night

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Breeding is straightforward scatter-spawning