Care
The Rosy Loach is a currently undescribed dwarf loach species that originates from Shan State in eastern Myanmar. The natural habitat is shallow, flooded grassland that is permanently maintained due to the damming of springs. Here, the water is clear and a maximum of 30cm (12") in depth, supporting an abundance of lush aquatic vegetation, primarily Anacharis and Elodea species. The Rosy Loach occurs sympatrically with Danio margaritatus (the Celestial Pearl Danio/Fireworks 'Rasbora') and an undescribed Microrasbora species which is similar in appearance to M. rubescens. The aquarium should be set up to mimic these natural conditions as closely as possible, with gentle water movement and dense planting/plenty of shady hiding places. Ideally the substrate will consist of soft sand in order to protect the delicate sensory barbels. Rosy Loaches can be sensitive when first imported, so ensure that the tank is biologically mature. This species is highly sociable and should be kept in large groups (10+). Tankmates should also be of a small size and peaceful nature. When this species was first imported during 2006, it was traded under the fictitious name 'Tuberoschistura arakanensis', and later erroneously as Yunnanilus sp. 'rosy' before ichthyologist Maurice Kottelat confirmed it belonged to the genus Petruichthys in 2012.
*As of November 2023 this fish is known to science as Physoschistura mango.
Feeding
These diminutive loaches require a variety of appropriately sized foodstuffs. Frozen baby brineshrimp (Artemia nauplii), mini-bloodworm, daphnia, and cyclops are all taken eagerly. Will also feed on small sinking pellets/granules, and crushed flake/powdered fry foods.
Breeding
This species has been bred in the home aquarium. When spawning, tiny, mildly adhesive eggs will be scattered over fine leaved plants such as Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri). The adults will predate on the eggs, so may need moving to other quarters once spawning has ceased. The eggs should hatch within 24-36 hours (temperature dependent), with the tiny fry becoming free-swimming after a further 24-36 hours. They can be started on infusoria and powdered fry foods before moving to baby brineshrimp (Artemia nauplii) as they grow.
