More info
Common Name: Sundadanio Axelrodi "Blue Variety"
Order: Cypriniformes — Family: Cyprinidae (Cyprinids)
Distribution: Southeast Asia — Endemic to Borneo (Kalimantan, Indonesia), found in blackwater streams and peat swamps.
Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
Maximum Adult Size: Up to 2 cm
pH: 4.0 to 6.5 — Hardness: Very soft (< 5 dGH)
Temperature: 22°C to 28°C
Minimum Aquarium Size: 40 litres — Ideally planted, with shaded areas and the use of peat or leaf litter to replicate natural habitat.
Behaviour & Compatibility:
Extremely peaceful and shy species. Should be kept in a group of at least 8 to 10 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour and brighter colours. Suitable for community tanks with other small, calm species. Avoid housing with larger or aggressive tankmates.
Diet:
Micropredator. Naturally feeds on zooplankton, microcrustaceans, and insect larvae. In captivity, it accepts fine dry foods, micro pellets, and appropriate live or frozen options such as baby brine shrimp, microworms, or daphnia.
Reproduction:
Oviparous. Breeding in captivity is possible but challenging. Eggs are typically scattered among fine plants or substrate. There is no parental care, so adults should be removed after spawning to prevent predation of eggs.
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males are more slender, with more vivid blue colouration and a shiny lateral stripe. Females are slightly larger with rounder bellies and more subdued colours.
Biotope:
Inhabits blackwater streams with acidic, tannin-rich waters, abundant leaf litter, and low conductivity. Often found in shaded forested areas with slow flow and dense aquatic vegetation.
Etymology:
Sundadanio refers to the Sundaland biogeographical region in Southeast Asia, while axelrodi honours ichthyologist and publisher Herbert R. Axelrod.