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Osteochilus vittatus, commonly known as the Nilem, is a species of ray-finned fish in the family Cyprinidae. It is a medium-sized freshwater fish, widely distributed across Southeast Asia. Characterized by its elongated body, silvery coloration, and distinctive mouth structure, it plays a significant ecological role as a detritivore and herbivore. It is also an important aquaculture species and a common food fish in many parts of its range.
Fysieke kenmerken
- Lichaamsvorm
- elongated
- Kleur
- The body is generally silvery to grayish-silver, often with a darker dorsal region and a lighter, sometimes yellowish, ventral side. Juveniles may exhibit a faint lateral stripe that fades with age. Fins are typically translucent or slightly yellowish.
- Schubtype
- cycloid
- Positie van de bek
- subterminal
- Onderscheidende kenmerken
- Hard, horny sheath on the inner edge of both jaws, used for scraping algae and detritus., A pair of small maxillary barbels and a pair of rostral barbels, often inconspicuous., Lateral line complete, with 30-33 scales., Dorsal fin with 3-4 unbranched and 10-13 branched rays., Anal fin with 3 unbranched and 5 branched rays., Maximum standard length typically around 25-30 cm, though specimens up to 35 cm have been recorded.
- Rugvin
- Single, relatively tall dorsal fin, originating slightly anterior to the pelvic fins. The last unbranched ray is often ossified and serrated.
- Staartvin
- Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.
- Borstvin
- Paired pectoral fins are moderately sized, positioned ventrally.
- Kenmerkende vinnen
- Pelvic fins are abdominal, located beneath the dorsal fin origin. All fins are generally translucent or slightly yellowish.
Identificatietips
Mouth Structure
Look for the distinctive hard, horny sheath on the inner edge of both jaws, which is a key characteristic of the genus Osteochilus and used for scraping.
Body Coloration
The overall silvery-gray body, often with a darker back and lighter belly, is typical. Juveniles might show a faint lateral stripe.
Fin Ray Count
Count the branched rays in the dorsal fin (10-13) and anal fin (5) for precise identification, especially when differentiating from closely related species.
Lateral Line Scales
The complete lateral line with 30-33 scales is a consistent morphological feature.
Habitat
- Watertype
- freshwater
- Diepte
- Typically found in shallow to moderately deep waters, usually less than 5 meters.
- Omgeving
- Inhabits a wide range of freshwater environments including rivers, streams, canals, lakes, reservoirs, and flooded forests. Prefers areas with moderate to slow currents, often associated with submerged vegetation, detritus, and muddy or sandy substrates. Tolerant of varying water conditions.
- Geografisch verspreidingsgebied
- Widespread throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia (Sumatra, Java, Borneo), Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.
Aquariuminformatie
- Verzorgingsniveau: intermediate
- Temperament: peaceful
- Dieet: herbivore
- Minimale aquariumgrootte: 200 liters (50 gallons)
- Temperatuur: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- pH-waarde: 6.0-7.5
- Hardheid: 5-15 dGH
- Compatibiliteit: Compatible with other peaceful, similarly sized community fish. Avoid aggressive or very small tank mates.
- Speciale vereisten: Requires a well-filtered tank with good water flow. Benefits from a planted aquarium with plenty of open swimming space. A diet rich in vegetable matter is crucial.
Informatie uit het wild
- Beschermingsstatus: least concern
- Seizoensgebondenheid: Breeds during the rainy season, typically from May to October, when water levels are high and food is abundant.
- Marktprijs: Varies regionally, generally moderate for food fish, lower for ornamental trade.
- Commercieel belang: high
- Smaak: Mild, slightly earthy
- Textuur: Flaky, tender
- Bereidingswijzen: Fried, Grilled, Steamed, Curried
- Voedingswaarde: Good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Belangrijke feiten
Dietary Scraperbehavior
The Nilem's unique hard, horny jaw sheaths are perfectly adapted for scraping algae and detritus from submerged surfaces, making it an important 'cleaner' in its ecosystem.
Aquaculture Stapleinteresting
Due to its rapid growth, adaptability, and good flesh quality, Osteochilus vittatus is a significant species in aquaculture across Southeast Asia, contributing to food security.
Floodplain Migratorbehavior
During the rainy season, Nilem undertake migrations into flooded areas, such as rice fields and inundated forests, for feeding and spawning, returning to main river channels as water recedes.
Taxonomic Stabilityevolution
While some Cyprinid genera have undergone extensive revisions, Osteochilus vittatus has maintained its scientific name with relatively few major taxonomic changes, indicating a well-defined species.
Veiligheidsinformatie
Veilig- Veiligheidsniveau: safe
- Giftig: Nee
- Eetbaarheid: edible
- Hanteringsnotities: No specific handling precautions are required. Like all fish, handle gently to minimize stress and avoid damaging scales or fins. Can be slippery.
Vergelijkbare soorten
Osteochilus hasseltii
Osteochilus hasseltii
O. hasseltii typically has a more pronounced dark lateral stripe that extends from the operculum to the caudal peduncle, and often a dark spot at the base of the caudal fin. Its body is generally deeper than O. vittatus.
Osteochilus melanopleura
Osteochilus melanopleura
O. melanopleura is generally larger and possesses a prominent black blotch on the side of its body, which is absent in O. vittatus. It also has a more compressed body.
Osteochilus spilurus
Osteochilus spilurus
O. spilurus is distinguished by a distinct black spot at the base of the caudal fin, which is usually absent or very faint in O. vittatus.
Wetenschappelijke classificatie
- Rijk
- Animalia
- Stam
- Chordata
- Klasse
- Actinopterygii
- Orde
- Cypriniformes
- Familie
- Cyprinidae
- Geslacht
- Osteochilus
- Soort
- O. vittatus
Ontdek Nilem
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