Hillstream Loach

Description

🐟 Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata)

The Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata), also known as the Reticulated Hillstream Loach, is a truly fascinating freshwater species loved by aquarists for both its striking appearance and unique behavior. With its flattened body and “wing-like” fins, this loach resembles a miniature stingray, perfectly adapted to life in fast-flowing streams. Native to Southeast Asia, it thrives in highly oxygenated waters and makes a superb addition to well-established community aquariums.

✨ Striking Appearance

• Distinctive reticulated (net-like) black and golden pattern across the body and fins

• Streamlined, flattened shape designed for clinging to rocks in strong currents

• Grows to a manageable size of 6–7 cm, perfect for mid-sized aquariums

🌊 Behavior & Tank Role

• Known for its quirky “hovering” movement, often seen gliding along glass and rock surfaces

• Peaceful and community-friendly, making it suitable with most small, non-aggressive tankmates

• Naturally grazes on algae and biofilm, helping keep the aquarium clean

🏞️ Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum tank size: 90 litres with strong water flow and high oxygen levels

• Best kept in groups of 3 or more to encourage natural behaviors

• Requires a mature tank with smooth stones, driftwood, and plenty of hiding spots

• Prefers cooler waters compared to most tropical fish, making it ideal for 22–25°C setups

🍃 Diet & Feeding

• Primarily grazes on algae, biofilm, and microorganisms in the aquarium

• Supplement diet with high-quality sinking wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber), and spirulina-based foods

• Occasional frozen or live foods like daphnia and bloodworms provide protein variety

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–25°C

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Strong filtration and regular water changes are essential for long-term health

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✅ Quick Facts – Hillstream Loach

• Peaceful algae grazer, perfect for community aquariums

• Unique ray-like body adds interest and movement to the tank

• Thrives in strong water currents with well-oxygenated conditions

• Helps maintain a clean aquarium by naturally grazing on surfaces

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The Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata) is an excellent choice for aquarists who love unusual, functional fish. Not only does it help with algae control, but its graceful, ray-like swimming and striking pattern make it a true standout in freshwater aquariums. For aquarists with cooler, high-flow setups, this little loach is both a showpiece and a hardworking member of your aquatic community.

💙 A perfect blend of beauty, utility, and charm for your tank!

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📋 Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata) – Care & Compatibility Guide

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