Reticulated hillstream loach
The reticulated hillstream loach is a specialized freshwater fish in the family Balitoridae, native to fast-flowing streams in Vietnam. It has a flattened, ray-like body patterned with tiger-like dark bands and spots, and modified fins that act as a suction disc to cling to rocks in strong current. It is a peaceful, sociable fish that does best in a small group and grazes constantly over hard surfaces. It coexists well with other calm species that share its preference for cool, oxygen-rich water. It needs a mature tank with strong flow, high oxygen, smooth rocks and glass coated in biofilm and algae, replicating a mountain stream. It is an omnivore that grazes aufwuchs but also needs supplemental feeding with algae wafers, biofilm, and small frozen foods. Cooler temperatures and pristine water are essential, making it more demanding than typical community loaches.
Water parameters
| Temperature | 20 – 24 °C |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Carbonate hardness (KH) | 1 – 10 °dKH |
| General hardness (GH) | 3 – 12 °dGH |
Tank & stocking
| Minimum tank volume | 90 L |
|---|---|
| Volume budget per individual | 8 L — adds up with tank-mates |
| Minimum group size | 3 individuals (shoaling) |
“Minimum tank volume” is a reasonable floor, not an absolute limit. The per-individual budget is used by the Aqua app to estimate how heavily a tank is stocked.
Frequently asked questions
What size aquarium does Reticulated hillstream loach need?
Provide at least 90 litres for a small group to keep Reticulated hillstream loach in good conditions.
What water parameters does Reticulated hillstream loach need?
A temperature of 20–24 °C, pH 6.5–7.5.
Is Reticulated hillstream loach peaceful or aggressive?
Its temperament is peaceful.
What does Reticulated hillstream loach eat?
Its diet: omnivore.
How many Reticulated hillstream loach should be kept together?
It is a social species: keep a group of at least 3.
How big does Reticulated hillstream loach get?
Around 6 cm as an adult.
Is Reticulated hillstream loach suitable for beginners?
Care level: intermediate.
Planning a tank with Reticulated hillstream loach?
AquaTender turns these parameters into live advice: it checks whether your tank is big enough, how heavily it's stocked, and whether your fish are compatible — then tracks water tests, photos and maintenance for you.
Fish from the same biotope
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