Hillstream Loach

[dollfaced]

What do these little guys prefer to eat? Mine is currently chowing down on some algae in my tank. I put an algae sinking wafer in that tank as well for some of my other fish in there but I haven't seen it eat that yet. Will they eat any vegetables like cucumber or spinach? I'm also thinking of trying some bloodworms. Suggestions anyone?

Also, should I buy a few more? I only have one right now but after looking online, some say they prefer to be in a group of 3+.

I know they like colder, faster flowing water. My tank is currently 75*F and I may put it a little cooler.

Thanks

 

[dizzied]

They'll eat most foods including the ones you mentioned, but being a hillstream loach, they'd much prefer algae instead.

They are territorial towards one another and will get into fights, but not kill each other. I doubt it matters whether they're kept alone or in a group.

Also need to point out that a strong flow and aeration is extremely important for the well-being of these fish.

 

[DevUK]

I've been looking at setting up a tank for a small group of these. Ideally they need a strong current and lots of oxygenated water.

A great article about them and other species can be read here:

http/www.loaches.com/articles/hillstream...n-the-fast-lane

 

[Lupin]

It is easy to produce continuous supply of algae. Place a bucket of water with smooth white rocks under direct sunlight with a pinch of fishfood. This should fasten the production of algae. Get as many smooth rocks as you can so you can continuously supply them with green algae.

Mine eat almost every food I give them. Algae, bloodworms, sinking pellets, etc.

 

[dollfaced]

I think I have a good amount of flow and aeration. My hs loach moves about the tank and doesn't sit in one spot all the time so I think it's doing fine. However, I'm looking into having something like the person made ("River-Tank Manifold Design") on the link DevUK provided to make a oneway flow. Do you think my 20 gal is too small for this?

For growing algae, I don't think I'll be able to do it outside. The average temperature is dropping and is currently 50-65*F. I don't think algae will grow very fast, or at all in those temps and below. I can try a sunny window. Or is there a specific wattage bulb I can put on my tank to promote growth?

By the way, thanks for the link DevUK

 

[dizzied]

20g wouldn't be too small. Or if you feel less fancy, use just a powerhead.