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Spotted Hillstream Loach

Gastromyzon punctulatus

Freshwater South-east Asia

A specialized, flattened loach that anchors to smooth river cobbles using fused pectoral and pelvic fins. It feeds continually on biofilm and aufwuchs. High dissolved oxygen levels, cooler water, and powerful water turnover are mandatory for keeping this torrent-adapted species alive.

6.5 cm adult length, drawn to scale. flat body.

Try it in the planner Opens a tank sized to its minimum with 1 fish added.

What it needs

ItemValueBecause
Adult length 6.5 cm Used for the Space check: the tank must be long enough for the fish to turn round.
Smallest tank 80 L, at least 60 cm long estimated The least water and floor length this species is kept in for good, as a single fish or smallest group.
Extra water per added fish 15 L estimated What each further fish adds once the minimum is met.
Waste load Class 1 of 5 estimated How much waste an adult makes against its size. Feeds the Load check.
Temperature 20 to 24 C Stock sharing a tank need overlapping ranges.
pH 6.5 to 7.8 Compared with tankmates in the Water check.
Hardness GH 5 to 15, KH 3 to 8 Degrees of general and carbonate hardness.
Flow High Low-flow fish are stressed in a strong current.
Light Bright Matched to the lighting class on the needs sheet.
Group size Single fish is fine Not a schooling species.
Temperament Peaceful Territorial: weak.
Swims in Near the bottom Fish that use different levels share a tank more easily.
Lifespan About 6 years A fish is a long commitment.
Experience Some experience helps A guide to how forgiving the species is of mistakes.

Tags marked estimated are judged from the size and habits of the species rather than measured, so treat them as a sensible default.

Diet and tank layout

Spotted Hillstream Loach is an herbivore that swims in the lowest part of the tank. It is safe with plants. Give it plenty of cover.

Tankmates

Works with

Depends

Avoid

Compare any two fish on the compatibility page, or print the equipment for a stock on the needs sheet. How this is worked out: the method.