Origin
Native to fast-moving, highland streams in northern Borneo, particularly in Sarawak, Malaysia. Found in clear waters with smooth stones and leaf litter.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Streamlined body with deep reddish to rusty hues and subtle patterning. Clings to rocks and glass with its muscular fins, gracefully skimming surfaces like a miniature stingray.

Purpose
Functions as a micro-algae grazer and bottom dweller in river setups. Adds natural movement and helps clean biofilm from rocks and hardscape.

Importance
Ideal for biotope enthusiasts and aquarists wanting to simulate Southeast Asian streams. Offers both utility and unique motion for aquascapes.

Included Resources
Needs soft sand or rounded gravel substrate, smooth river stones, and good surface agitation. Provide cool, oxygenated water via powerheads or river manifold setups. Mature biofilm is essential for grazing.

Best Use Cases
Perfect for hillstream river layouts, Southeast Asian biotopes, or shrimp-safe community tanks with high flow. Does best in established, algae-friendly environments.

Conservation Context
Collected from specific mountain streams in Borneo. These habitats are under threat from deforestation and mining—supporting responsible sources helps protect them.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• Danios and White Cloud Mountain Minnows
• Shrimp and snails
• Pangio loaches
• Gastromyzon or Sewellia species
• Peaceful rasboras

Region (A)
• Latitude: 1.5584° N
• Longitude: 110.3459° E
(Sarawak Highlands, Malaysian Borneo)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 0.8470° N
• Longitude: 113.9213° E
(Kalimantan River headwaters, Indonesian Borneo)