Pindus Stone Loach

Differs from all European and western Anatolian Nemacheilinae in having a stout caudal peduncle (depth 1.17-1.38 times in its length), long paired fins and barbels, and a deeply forked caudal fin. Differs also in having pectoral fin length 22.4-25.5% SL; pelvic fin length 18.2-20.1% SL; anterior rostral barbel length (8.1-9.9% SL) and posterior rostral barbel length (6.1-8.8% SL) (Ref. 55660). Also reported to be diagnosed from its congeners in Europe by having caudal peduncle depth 1.4-1.6 times in its length, eye diameter 16-18% HL, no suborbital flap in males, lateral line reaching only to anal base, and 8 ½ branched dorsal rays (Ref. 59043). Description: dorsal fin with 4 simple and 7-9 branched rays; anal fin with 3 simple and 5 branched rays; pectoral fin with 10-12 rays; pelvic fin with 7-9 branched rays (Ref. 55660).

Dorsal soft rays (total): 11 - 13; Analsoft rays: 8; Vertebrae: 35 - 36

Occurs in creeks and streams with stone bottom and in riffles (Ref. 59043). Seems to prefer clean and clear water with stony, gravely or sandy bottoms, with quite fast current (Ref. 55660). Also found in stream sections characterized by quieter and shallow areas (Ref. 55660). A short-lived species which inhabits highland water courses (Ref. 26100).

fisheries: of no interest

Oxynoemacheilus pindus is a species of Cypriniformes fish in the stone loach family (Nemacheilidae).

It is found in Greece and Albania. Its natural habitat is rivers. It is threatened by habitat loss and change caused by water extraction, pollution, and agriculture.