Serpenticobitis zonata Kottelat, 1998
photo by Panitvong, N.

Family:  Serpenticobitidae (Snake loaches)
Max. size:  4.3 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; freshwater
Distribution:  Asia: Xe Bangfai (Mekong) and Xe Bang Hiang in Laos.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-12; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 8-8. Distinguishable by its unique color pattern of 7-8 quite regular, dark, vertical bars on the body; pale interspaces in some specimens with thin, median, dark bar; all fins with rows of black spots; overhanging snout; small mouth with fleshy lips; absence of mental lobe; presence in some specimens of a labial barbel on lower lip near corner of mouth (Ref. 27732).
Biology:  Found in stretches with relatively swift, clear water, with boulders and gravel bottom (Ref. 27732).
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 19 February 2011 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


Source and more info: www.fishbase.org. For personal, classroom, and other internal use only. Not for publication.