Pride's Schistura

Schistura pridii is one of the most attractively coloured members of its genus, bearing vivid orange-rust transverse bars on a pale body that create a striking banded appearance reminiscent of some hillstream gobies. Described in the early 2000s from Thai streams, it has become increasingly popular in the specialised hillstream hobby due to its exceptional colouration and relatively consistent availability through Southeast Asian export.

As with most Schistura, S. pridii is boldly territorial within its species — males in particular will spar vigorously for favoured rock territories, engaging in lateral-display chases and occasional nipping. This behaviour, while energetic, is rarely seriously damaging in well-designed aquaria with sufficient hiding structure. Housing four to six individuals in a 70-litre tank with multiple boulder groups is the recommended approach.

The vibrant orange colouration is highly dependent on diet and water quality. A protein-rich omnivorous diet including frozen foods, combined with clean, cool, well-oxygenated water and consistent routine water changes, will maintain the species at its most vivid and attractive. In suboptimal conditions the orange bars fade rapidly.

Water: 20–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 4–15, KH 2–8; moderate to strong flow; excellent water quality essential to maintain vibrant orange colouration. Tank: 70 L minimum; multiple boulder groups creating separate territorial zones; fine gravel or smooth pebble substrate; excellent filtration. Feeding: Omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and brine shrimp; protein-rich diet maintains the species' vivid orange banding. Breeding: Rarely bred in captivity; condition with water changes and mild cooling; territorial behaviour intensifies during breeding season. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive within species; generally peaceful toward unrelated species; do not house with fish of similar body shape or colour.