The species is endemic to Lake Inlé, Shan State, Myanmar. Its presence in the surrounding basin is not known. Although it would qualify for a threatened category based on its occurrence in a single location and restricted range, it is assessed as Near Threatened as populations in the lake appear to be stable, it is fished at low levels, and is considered not to be highly susceptible to pollution. Populations and habitat trends should be monitored.

The species is endemic to Lake Inlé, Shan State, Myanmar. Presence in the surrounding basin in not known. The area of the lake is 116 km².

The population was stable and good in 1994 (S. Kullander, pers. comm.).

Recorded from the freshwater lake; benthic.

There are some impacts to the known habitat from pollution for example, but the species is not thought to be highly susceptible to impacts.

A local foodfish and found in the ornamental fish trade only occasionally.

Research into pollution trends and impact of known threats needed.