Hillstream loach
Sewellia lineolata · Gastromyzontidae
Also known as Butterfly hillstream loach, Reticulated hillstream loach
Intermediate
Flat, patterned algae grazer that demands cool, hard-flowing, oxygen-saturated water.
In short: A hillstream loach needs at least 75 L (20 US gal), water at 20–24 °C (68–75 °F) and pH 6.5–7.5. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 3 or more, and rated intermediate to keep.
- Minimum tank
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 20–24 °C (68–75 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Adult size
- 6 cm (2.4 in)
- Group size
- 3+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 20–24 °C (68–75 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Hardness
- 4–12 dGH
- Lifespan
- 5–8 years
- Diet
- Herbivore — biofilm, algae, gel foods, blanched vegetables.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Central Vietnam and Laos
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Rapids over smooth stone
- Natural conditions
- Cool, turbulent, highly oxygenated water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 3 fish
- Swims
- Bottom
- Good tank mates
- White cloud mountain minnowZebra danioCooler-water rasboras
- Avoid
- DiscusAny warm still-water species
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- Males are slimmer with broader pectoral fins.
- Notes
- Spawns in strong flow among stones; fry graze biofilm.
- Common ailments
- Oxygen starvationHeat stressStarvation in sterile tanks
Will it fit your tank?
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