The Myleus schomburgkii, commonly known as the Blackberry or Schomburgk's Myleus, is a captivating and impressive species of freshwater fish that stands out due to its unique appearance and engaging behavior. Originating from the Amazon River basin, particularly in Brazil and Peru, these fish are prized by experienced aquarists for their beauty and distinct social behavior. Let's delve into the notable features, care requirements, and considerations for keeping Myleus schomburgkii in your aquarium:

Appearance:

• Unique Coloration: The Blackberry Myleus is characterized by its distinctive blackish-blue body coloration, which resembles blackberries.
• Large Size: These fish can grow up to around 14 inches (35 cm) in length, making them a substantial presence in the aquarium.

Behavior:

• Shoaling Nature: Myleus schomburgkii are shoaling fish, which means they prefer to live in groups. Keeping them in groups of at least five individuals allows them to display their natural behaviors.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: Due to their size, provide a spacious tank of at least 100 gallons (378 liters) for a small group of Myleus schomburgkii.
• Aquascape: Create a natural environment with driftwood, rocks, and plants to mimic their native habitat.
• Strong Filtration: Efficient filtration is crucial to maintain excellent water quality, as these fish can produce a significant amount of waste.

Feeding Habit:

• Herbivorous Diet: Blackberry Myleus are primarily herbivores. Offer a variety of vegetable-based foods like spirulina flakes, fresh vegetables, and high-quality pellets designed for herbivorous fish.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: Maintain the water temperature between 72°F and 80°F (22°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.
• Water Hardness: Provide moderate to slightly hard water with a hardness level between 5 and 15 dGH.

Care:

• Group Dynamics: Keeping them in a group reduces stress and allows them to display their natural social behaviors.
• Tankmates: Choose larger, peaceful tankmates that can tolerate their size and behaviors.