"Introduce the intriguing Borneo Sucker Fish (Hillstream Loach) to your aquarium! These unique, algae-eating fish thrive in fast-flowing waters and add a touch of nature's beauty."

Overview: The Borneo Sucker Fish, also known as the Hillstream Loach (Gastromyzon spp.), is a fascinating freshwater fish native to the fast-flowing streams and rivers of Borneo. These fish are admired for their distinct appearance, which resembles a small aquatic stingray, and their ability to thrive in well-oxygenated, fast-moving waters. Borneo Sucker Fish are excellent algae eaters, contributing to a clean and balanced aquarium environment. Due to their specific care requirements, they are best suited for aquarists with some experience.

Appearance:

• Coloration: Borneo Sucker Fish typically have a muted color palette with shades of brown, green, or gray, often adorned with spots or stripes that provide excellent camouflage against rocky substrates.
• Body Shape: These loaches have a flattened body with large, wing-like pectoral fins and a suction-cup mouth designed for clinging to rocks in fast-flowing water.
• Size: They are small, generally growing up to 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length.

Water Conditions: To ensure the health and well-being of Borneo Sucker Fish, maintain the following water conditions:

• Temperature: 68-75°F (20-24°C).
• pH Range: 6.5-7.5.
• Water Hardness: 5-12 dGH.
• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended to provide ample space and water stability. Larger tanks are preferable for groups and to recreate their natural environment.

Tank Setup: Creating an ideal habitat for your Borneo Sucker Fish involves several considerations:

• Substrate: Use smooth gravel or sand to mimic their natural riverbed environment.
• Decor: Include plenty of smooth rocks, driftwood, and live plants to provide hiding spots and surfaces for algae to grow. Java moss and Anubias are good plant choices.
• Filtration: Strong filtration and water movement are crucial to replicate their natural habitat. Use a powerful canister filter or powerhead to create a strong current. Oxygenation is also important; consider using an air stone or additional circulation pump.
• Lighting: Moderate to high lighting is necessary to promote algae growth, which is a primary food source for these fish.

Tank Mates: Borneo Sucker Fish are peaceful and can coexist with other similarly peaceful fish. Choose tank mates carefully:

• Compatible Species: Other peaceful fish that prefer similar water conditions, such as small tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras catfish. Shrimp and snails are also suitable tank mates.
• Incompatible Species: Avoid aggressive or territorial fish, as well as those that prefer significantly different water conditions or have fin-nipping tendencies.

Feeding Habit: Borneo Sucker Fish are primarily algae eaters but benefit from a varied diet. Providing a balanced diet is crucial to keep them healthy and active:

• Staple Diet: Algae and biofilm growing on rocks and tank surfaces. Supplement with high-quality algae wafers and spirulina-based foods.
• Supplements: Offer blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. Additionally, provide protein-rich foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms occasionally.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day, ensuring they have access to algae and supplemental foods.

Care and Maintenance: Regular care and maintenance are crucial for the well-being of your Borneo Sucker Fish:

• Water Changes: Perform weekly water changes of 20-30% to keep water parameters stable and reduce waste buildup.
• Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of common fish diseases such as ich and parasitic infections. Early detection and treatment are vital.
• Behavioral Observation: Observe their behavior regularly. Healthy Borneo Sucker Fish are active, often seen grazing on algae and clinging to rocks and tank surfaces.

Breeding: Breeding Borneo Sucker Fish in captivity can be challenging but is possible with the right conditions:

• Pair Selection: Choose healthy and mature individuals to enhance breeding success. Males are typically smaller and more colorful, with more pronounced pectoral fins than females.
• Spawning Environment: Set up a separate breeding tank with plenty of smooth rocks and strong water flow. Maintain optimal water conditions with high oxygen levels.
• Spawning Process: Condition the breeding pair with high-quality foods. The female will lay eggs on smooth surfaces, which the male will fertilize. After spawning, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs.
• Fry Care: The eggs will hatch in about 7-10 days. Feed the fry infusoria or commercially available liquid fry food until they are large enough to eat micro worms or finely crushed flake food.