Euepiphanus Spiketail Loach

Vaillantella euepiphanusa is the second species in the monotypic-until-recently genus Vaillantella, described from specimens collected in the rivers of Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo). It is rarer than V. maassi in the trade and distinguished by a more pronounced bronze iridescence across the body flanks, slightly larger size, and a marginally longer caudal filament in adult males. Like V. maassi, it occupies hill streams rather than the extreme fast-current zones preferred by Gastromyzontidae loaches.

In aquaria, V. euepiphanusa shares the same general requirements as V. maassi — moderate to strong flow, good oxygenation, Bornean soft-water chemistry, and an omnivorous diet. Its larger size means a slightly more spacious tank is advisable, with 120 litres as the recommended minimum for a small group. The species is peaceful but the elongated body and large fins can intimidate very small tankmates.

Its rarity means that published aquarium accounts are limited. Hobbyists who manage to obtain this species should document their observations carefully, as every contribution to the captive husbandry knowledge base for rare hillstream species is valuable. Captive breeding, if achieved, would be a significant landmark.

Water: 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.0, GH 3–12, KH 1–6; moderate to strong flow; well-oxygenated soft Bornean-style water; keep nitrates below 20 ppm. Tank: 120 L minimum; elongated tank; smooth substrate with boulders and driftwood; provide open swimming areas alongside sheltered zones. Feeding: Omnivore — sinking pellets, algae wafers, frozen bloodworm and daphnia; varied diet is important for maintaining vibrant bronze colouration. Breeding: No documented captive breeding; condition with cooling and increased flow as for V. maassi; any success should be publicly documented. Compatibility: Peaceful; best with other Bornean hillstream species of comparable size; avoid nano species as tankmates.