Hillstream Loach care guide
Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata) — minimum tank 75 L, temperature 18-24 °C, pH 6.5-7.5.
Overview
The Reticulated Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata) is a flattened balitorid catfish from fast, oxygen-rich streams of central Vietnam. The body is broadened ventrally and pelvic fins act as a suction disc that allows the fish to cling to smooth rocks in strong current.
Taxonomy
- Family: Gastromyzontidae
- Genus: Sewellia
- Scientific name: Sewellia lineolata
- Common synonyms: Reticulated Hillstream Loach, Butterfly Loach
Habitat
Native to clear, shallow, fast-flowing forest streams in Quảng Nam and adjacent provinces of central Vietnam. Substrates are rocky with smooth boulders, and biofilm grows on every surface.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 75 L (19.8 US gal)
- Adult size: 5-7 cm
- Temperature: 18-24 °C (64-75 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Water flow: strong
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- School size: ≥3 individuals
Diet
A grazing herbivore that scrapes biofilm and algae from rocks. In aquaria supplement with algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach) and occasional small live or frozen foods.
Compatibility
A peaceful, territorial bottom-dweller best kept in groups of three or more in a tank with strong flow, high oxygenation and plenty of smooth rocks. Compatible with active, current-loving cyprinids and other hillstream loaches.
Breeding
An egg-scatterer. Spawning has been documented in mature aquaria with established biofilm and stable cool, well-oxygenated water; eggs are deposited in crevices.