Live fish will be delivered only to selected pincodes in Kolkata and nearby areas. Here's a complete guide to the Hillstream Loach, a fascinating freshwater fish known for its unique appearance...
Live fish will be delivered only to selected pincodes in Kolkata and nearby areas.
Here's a complete guide to the Hillstream Loach, a fascinating freshwater fish known for its unique appearance and need for cool, fast-flowing water.
Common Names: Hillstream Loach, Butterfly Loach, Chinese Hillstream Loach, Borneo Sucker
Scientific Names (Examples):
Beaufortia kweichowensis (most common in the hobby)
Sewellia lineolata (Reticulated Hillstream Loach)
Gastromyzon spp.
Family: Balitoridae
Origin: Mountain streams in Southeast Asia (China, Vietnam, Thailand, etc.)
Size: 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm)
Shape: Flattened body, wing-like pectoral fins, ventral sucker-mouth for clinging to surfaces
Coloration: Varies by species; often olive, tan, or gray with striking patterns (stripes, spots, reticulated designs)
Special Feature: Sucker-shaped belly adapted to cling to rocks in strong currents
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (long tanks preferred)
Tank Setup:
Fast water flow (simulate river-like environment)
Smooth rocks, stones, and flat surfaces for grazing
Sand or fine gravel substrate
Low-light plants (Anubias, Java fern/moss)
Water Movement: Strong (use powerheads or river manifolds)
Oxygenation: High—these fish require well-aerated water
Lighting: Moderate (helps grow algae/biofilm on surfaces)
Temperature: 68–75°F (20–24°C)
pH: 6.5–7.5
Hardness: 4–15 dGH
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm (sensitive to poor water quality)
Nitrates: <20 ppm
Natural Diet: Biofilm, algae, microscopic organisms
In Captivity:
Algae wafers
Spirulina-based foods
Sinking pellets
Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
Frozen/live food: daphnia, bloodworms (occasional protein)
Feeding Tip: Ensure food reaches tank bottom; they don’t compete well with faster midwater feeders
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, active during the day
Social Behavior: Best kept in groups (3–6 minimum)
Males may show minor territorial pushing but rarely fight
Activity: Constantly grazing on rocks, glass, and surfaces
Great Companions:
White Cloud Mountain Minnows
Zebra Danios
Small rasboras or tetras (peaceful species)
Shrimp (like Amano)
Avoid:
Aggressive fish (like cichlids)
Large or fast-feeding species that outcompete them for food
Tropical warm-water species (above 78°F long-term)
Breeding Difficulty: Moderate to difficult in captivity
Spawning Behavior:
Males chase females and guard eggs in caves or under rocks
Eggs hatch in 1–2 weeks
Breeding Tank Setup:
Cool, well-oxygenated, heavily rocky environment
Strong water flow to simulate natural spawning conditions
Fry Feeding: Infusoria, powdered foods, and biofilm
Lifespan: 5–8 years (sometimes longer in perfect conditions)
Common Issues:
Suffocation due to low oxygen
Starvation (not enough algae or appropriate food)
Stress from poor tank mates or overcrowding
Preventive Tips:
Keep water ultra-clean
Provide plenty of food surfaces (not just water-column feeding)
Maintain consistent flow and aeration
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Peaceful and interesting to watch | Needs cooler, fast-flowing, oxygenated water |
Unique appearance | May struggle in tanks without enough algae |
Algae grazers – natural cleaner | Not ideal for beginners with warm tanks |
Can be bred in captivity (rarely) | Sensitive to poor water conditions |
Parameter | Ideal Range |
---|---|
Size | 2–3 inches |
Temp | 68–75°F (20–24°C) |
pH | 6.5–7.5 |
Tank Size | 20+ gallons (long) |
Water Flow | Strong |
Oxygen Level | High |
Group Size | 3–6+ |
Diet | Algae, biofilm, wafers, veggies |
Lifespan | 5–8 years |
Temperament | Peaceful |
Tankmates | Peaceful, cool-water fish |
Long tank with river manifold or sponge filters + powerheads
Sand substrate
Large smooth river stones, cobbles
Driftwood and mosses
High aeration, high flow
Moderate lighting to promote algae growth
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