Origin
Native to fast-moving streams in southern China, particularly in the Guizhou and Guangxi provinces. Found clinging to rocks in clear, oxygen-rich waters.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Its ray-shaped body and deep red coloration give it a unique, otherworldly presence. Moves with a gliding motion across rocks and glass. Calm and shy, it thrives in groups and rewards patient observation.

Purpose
Ideal for biofilm control, glass cleaning, and mid-to-bottom zone visual interest. Helps maintain clean surfaces in high-flow tanks and adds subtle micro-behaviors to the ecosystem.

Importance
Favored by aquarists seeking to replicate fast-flow biotopes or add rare beauty to river-themed tanks. Despite its small size, it becomes a living feature of motion and texture.

Included Resources
Requires high oxygen levels, clean water, and smooth hardscape for grazing. River pumps or strong directional flow help replicate natural conditions. Cool temperatures and shade are important.

Best Use Cases
Perfect for river-style tanks, loach communities, and biotopes featuring danios, barbs, or white clouds. Pairs beautifully with dark substrate and rounded stone layouts.

Conservation Context
Some wild harvesting occurs in remote Chinese waters, but not at industrial levels. Prioritize tank-raised stock when available.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• White Cloud Mountain Minnows
• Boraras species (e.g. Chili Rasboras)
• Danios and hillstream barbs
• Amano and bamboo shrimp
• Other peaceful loaches (e.g. Sewellia, Gastromyzon)

Region (A)
• Latitude: 26.6475° N
• Longitude: 106.6302° E
(Guizhou Province, China — mountain streams)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 24.4888° N
• Longitude: 111.2890° E
(Lijiang River tributaries, Guangxi, China)