Osteochilus microcephalus (Valenciennes, 1842)
Osteochilus microcephalus
photo by Baird, I.G.

Family:  Cyprinidae (Minnows or carps), subfamily: Labeoninae
Max. size:  24 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater; pH range: 6.5 - 7.5; dH range: 12 - 20
Distribution:  Asia: Thailand to Viet Nam and Indonesia.
Diagnosis:  Presence of broad black mid-lateral stripe that ends at caudal-fin base (Ref. 12693); 10-13 branched dorsal rays; reddish caudal fin; 1 or 3 tubercles at tip of snout (Ref. 43281).
Biology:  Lives in highland streams to lowland rivers and peats (Ref. 57235). Found in a variety of habitats, but frequently in sluggish, turbid waters (Ref. 43281). Occur in midwater to bottom depths in rivers, streams, canals and swamps. Moves into flooded forests and grassland during the flood season. It returns to the rivers later, with highest numbers appearing from December to February. Used to make prahoc and nuoc mam (Ref. 12693).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 20 April 2020 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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