Nemacheilus troglocataractus Kottelat & Géry, 1989
Blind cave loach
Nemacheilus troglocataractus
photo by Panitvong, N.

Family:  Nemacheilidae (Brook loaches)
Max. size:  6.77 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater
Distribution:  Asia: Tham Sai Yok Noi, Thailand.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-12; Anal soft rays: 8-8. Absence of eyes and pigmentation; presence of a nuchal cavity; slightly compressed body, tapering posteriorly; head depressed, conical when seen from above (Ref. 37842).
Biology:  Cave-restricted species. Inhabits headwater stream with a relatively low volume of water flowing over rocks, alternating with small pools and gravel-bottomed shallow reaches (Ref. 42927). Few individuals were seen adhering to rocks in fast-flowing, well-aerated water or swimming in the pools (Ref. 42927). Exhibits agonistic behavior upon encounter (Ref. 42927). Feeds on benthic microorganisms (Ref. 58784).
IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered (CR); Date assessed: 22 February 2011 (B1ab(iii,v)+2ab(iii,v)) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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