Fish Profiles: Hillstream Loach
Sewellia lineolata, also known as the Tiger Hillstream Loach, is a freshwater fish species native to Vietnam. It is among the most attractive balitorids yet seen, with tubercles on the snout and raised rows of soft, raised, tuberculated tissue on the anterior pectoral rays.
The species is restricted to shallow, fast-flowing, highly-oxygenated headwaters and tributaries characterized by stretches of riffles and runs broken up by pools or cascades in some cases. The fish are typically found in clear, oxygen-saturated water which, allied with the sun, facilitates the development of a rich biofilm carpeting submerged surfaces. The fish can grow up to 55-65mm in length.
Scientific name: Sewellia lineolata
Origin: Vietnam
Habitat: Rocky upland streams
Maximum size: 6cm
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Balitoridae
Phylum: Chordata
Diet: Natural algae in tank, algae pellets
Temperament: Peaceful
Recommended aquarium size: 20 gallons / 100 litres
Temperature: 21–25°C
pH: 6.5-7.5
Expect to pay in store: £6-10 each
If you’re interested in keeping Hillstream Loach as a pet, it’s recommended to have a minimum tank size of 100 litres that is well oxygenated with a high flow rate - supplement with dissolved oxygen tablets if needed. Hillstream Tiger Loach are omnivorous bottom feeders with a preference towards a plant-based diet. They can live up to 8 to 10 years.
To browse our range of oxygenating air pumps please click here.
To browse our range of algae-based food please click here.
To browse our range of large aquariums please click here.
Photo credit(s): Canva Pro Licence, Shutterstock
