Reticulated Hillstream Loach
(Sewellia lineolata)

Description

Reticulated Hillstream Loach: A Dynamic Algae Grazer for Your Aquarium

Bring the vibrancy of clear, fast-flowing streams into your home with the captivating Reticulated Hillstream Loach. These unique bottom-dwellers offer both beauty and exceptional algae control.

Overview

The Reticulated Hillstream Loach, with its flattened, streamlined body and intricate patterns of dark brown and golden reticulations, remarkably resembles a miniature freshwater stingray. Adapted to powerful currents, its wide pectoral and pelvic fins form a natural suction disc, allowing it to cling effortlessly to rocks and glass. These fascinating fish are diurnal, spending their days actively grazing on biofilm and algae, providing constant visual interest as they explore your aquascape.

Care Level

Moderate care is required, primarily due to their need for highly oxygenated, fast-flowing water. These peaceful loaches thrive in groups of three or more, exhibiting their most natural behaviors when kept together. They are compatible with most peaceful community fish but may compete with other bottom-dwellers if space and food are limited.

Tank Essentials

A minimum tank size of 80 litres with a base footprint of at least 75×30 cm is recommended to provide ample grazing surface and accommodate strong currents. Crucial for their well-being is robust filtration and additional powerheads to replicate their natural riverine habitat, ensuring high oxygen levels. Provide smooth rocks, pebbles, and driftwood, along with bright lighting to encourage biofilm growth.

Diet

Primarily an herbivorous grazer, the Reticulated Hillstream Loach feeds on algae and biofilm. Supplement their diet with high-quality spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini. They will also opportunistically consume small frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

Why Buy From Us

When you buy Reticulated Hillstream Loach online from Corais de Vidro, you receive healthy aquarium fish carefully acclimated and shipped with ethical practices. Our expert team ensures each fish is robust and ready to thrive in your river tank setup, backed by our commitment to responsible aquatics.

• Scientific Name: *Sewellia lineolata*
• Common Name / Variant: Reticulated Hillstream Loach
• Maximum Size: 6.5 cm
• Origin: Vietnam
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Temperature: 20–24°C
• Lifespan: 5–10 years
• Swimming Zone: Bottom

Add these unique algae-eating fish to your aquascape today!