Chinese Hi Fin Banded Shark
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The Chinese Hi Fin Banded Shark, Myxocyprinus asiaticus, is also known as the Chinese or Sailfin Sucker, Asian Sucker, and Entsuyui. It is considered a true suckerfish, and is named for the absence of teeth in the mouth and a comb-like row of teeth on the pharyngeal bones of the throat. It is thought to be one of the most primitive members of the Cyprinidae family. As a juvenile, the Hi Fin Banded Shark has striking contrasting colors and an inspiringly high dorsal fin. As an adult, these colors fade. In the wild, this fish can reach up to 39 inches in length; in the aquarium setting they generally reach only 18-24 inches.
Due to its its size, the Hi Fin Banded Shark requires more advanced care and handling. Therefore, an aquarium with 125 gallons or more of moving, well-filtered, and well-oxygenated water is necessary. Many people find this species to be an ideal algae eater in the backyard garden pond, as the fish can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees fahrenheit.
Peaceful by nature, the Hi Fin Banded Shark is omnivorous, but leans toward the herbivore side of this category, feeding on benthic (bottom-dwelling) invertebrates and rasp algae growing on rocks and logs. Freeze-dried or frozen bloodworms make an excellent diet for juveniles.
Quick Stats:
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 59-82° F, pH 6.5-7.5, KH 4-20
Max. Size: 1′ 6″
Color Form: Tan
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: China - Yangtze River Basin, Northeast Asia
Family: Cyprinidae
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I have a chinese hi fin banded shark in my koi pond..have had it for approx 5 years….I live in Oakdale ca and the pond is approx 3500 gals…it shares the pond with 2 40″+ channel cats, koi and goldfish….it eats floating koi food by trapping it on the edges…starting doing this about a year ago..(adapting)…it is probably 24 inches long and still has a huge dorsal fin…it is doing very well….I tried about 4 young ones and this is the only one that lived…I believe they are very sensitive to ph when you introduce them….