Papua short-tailed freshwater flounder (Brachirus villosus)

The Papua short-tailed freshwater flounder (Brachirus villosus) is a true aquarium rarity that fascinates with its extraordinary body shape and unique behaviour. As peace-loving bottom dwellers, these exceptional flatfish attract everyone's attention and enrich any specialised freshwater aquarium.

Origin and habitat

Brachirus villosus originates from the freshwater systems of Papua New Guinea and adjacent regions. There, the species prefers to inhabit slow-flowing sections of water with soft, fine sandy or muddy substrates in which it can camouflage itself perfectly.

Appearance and size

The Papua short-tailed freshwater flounder possesses the characteristic flattened body of a flatfish with an inconspicuous colouration adapted to the substrate. This natural camouflage allows the animal to blend in with its surroundings. With smooth movements, it glides closely over the bottom or burrows into the sand right up to its eyes.

Aquarium care

For the successful keeping of this freshwater flounder, an aquarium with a minimum volume of 100 litres is required. Fine sand as a substrate is essential, as the animals like to burrow into it to seek shelter and rest. Coarse gravel is unsuitable as it injures their sensitive underside. The water temperature should be between 22 and 26 °C, the pH value in the range of 6.5 to 8.0, and the total hardness at 5 to 18 °dGH. Keeping them in a group is ideal and promotes the natural behaviour of these fish.

Tank mates

Caution is advised when selecting aquarium partners. The Papua short-tailed freshwater flounder behaves predatorily towards very small fish and shrimp, which is why these are not suitable as tank mates. Socialisation with sufficiently large, peaceful species that predominantly inhabit the middle and upper water areas, on the other hand, is straightforward.

Feeding

As pure carnivores, these freshwater flounders require a nutritious diet based on animal matter. High-quality live and frozen foods such as red and white mosquito larvae, Tubifex or small blackworms are preferred and should be offered directly on the substrate.

Behaviour

These animals are extremely peace-loving and spend most of the day perfectly camouflaged on or in the substrate. When they do move, they fascinate with a smooth undulating motion of their fin fringes.