"Introduce the fascinating Vietnam Sucker Fish (Hillstream Loach) to your aquarium! These unique, algae-eating fish thrive in fast-flowing waters and add intrigue to your tank."

Overview: The Vietnam Sucker Fish, also known as the Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata), is a unique freshwater fish native to the fast-flowing streams and rivers of Vietnam. These fish are known for their distinct appearance and behavior, often likened to small aquatic stingrays due to their flattened bodies and specialized pectoral fins. Hillstream Loaches are excellent algae eaters and make an intriguing addition to a well-maintained aquarium. Due to their specific habitat requirements, they are best suited for aquarists with some experience.

Appearance:

• Coloration: Hillstream Loaches have a striking appearance with a pale yellow to golden body covered in intricate black lines and spots, creating a maze-like pattern.
• Body Shape: Their bodies are flattened with large, wing-like pectoral fins and a sucker-like mouth adapted for clinging to rocks in fast-flowing water.
• Size: They are small, typically growing up to 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length.

Water Conditions: To ensure the health and well-being of Hillstream Loaches, 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. A larger tank is preferable for a group and to recreate their natural environment.

Tank Setup: Creating an ideal habitat for your Hillstream Loaches 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: Hillstream Loaches 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: Hillstream Loaches are primarily algae eaters but benefit from a varied diet. Provide a balanced diet 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 Hillstream Loaches:

• 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 Hillstream Loaches are active, often seen grazing on algae and clinging to rocks and tank surfaces.

Breeding: Breeding Hillstream Loaches 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.