Hillstream loach

Alternative Name(s): Borneo Sucker Fish, Hongkong Plec, Chinese Plec

Scientific Name(s): Beaufortia kweichowensis

Category: Coldwater / Tropical

Difficulty: ****

Maximum Size: 7cms

Minimum Tank Volume: 75 litres

Minimum Tank Size: 24"

Water Temperature Range: 20-24°C

Water pH Range: 6.5-8.0

Water Hardness Range: 2-15 dGH

General Information:

Hillstream Loach are members of the family Balitoridae. They are small bottom-dwelling freshwater fish from Asia and there are about 500 species in 37 genera. Although they come from tropical waters they need high o2 so are best kept in cooler tanks. Balitorids are really interesting fish to watch. Although peaceful, most will defend territories, either to sequester feeding resources like a nice patch of algae, or to keep other fish away from a potential breeding site.

Tank Requirements:

See Minimum Tank Volume and Minimum Tank Size above

Diet Requirements:

Will eat prepared food, but also need a good algae growth for the little goodies (aufwuchs) that grow on it.

Compatibility:

White Cloud Mountain Minnows.

Recommendations:

A high oxygen tank is required to keep Hillstream Loach at their best. A river tank set up which has had time to mature is advisable.

Similar Species:            

   

Gastromyzon punctulatus, Pseudogastromyzon cheni.

Sexing:

Males are usually larger than females and often display stronger colouration.

Breeding:

Balitorids spawn in a depression in the substrate alongside a pebble or rock. The male wiggles about a bit to excavate a little hollow in the gravel. They have been known to breed in a Goldfish tank.