Sinobdella Sinensis

Sinobdella sinensis occupies a unique phylogenetic position within the Mastacembelidae, being the sole species in its genus and one of relatively few spiny eels from East Asia adapted to cooler subtropical conditions. It is found in the Pearl River drainage and adjacent coastal river systems of Guangdong and Guangxi provinces of southern China.

Its slender body and moderate size make it a manageable species for aquariums in the 120 L range, and its tolerance for temperatures as low as 18°C gives it advantages over tropical relatives in temperate-climate fish rooms. Soft fine sand substrate, hiding spots, and a sealed lid are still essential requirements.

Feeding on bloodworm, tubifex, and earthworms proceeds without difficulty; sinking pellets are accepted by most settled individuals. Its rarity in the hobby gives it genuine collector appeal, and it is a natural fit for a cool-water Asian biotope aquarium alongside hillstream loaches, temperate barbs, and Chinese hillstream fish.

Water: Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 18–26°C, GH 3–12, KH 1–6. Tank: Minimum 120 L, fine sand, hiding spots, subtropical temperature, sealed lid. Feeding: Carnivore; bloodworm, tubifex, earthworms, and sinking pellets. Breeding: Not documented; assumed egg-scatterer. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium subtropical community fish; avoid nano fish.