Hillstream Loach

Overview

Care

The exquisite Sewellia lineolata is a fairly recent introduction to the aquatics trade, and like other hillstream loach species, they do have specialist care requirements. These beautiful ‘suckerbelly’ loaches have evolved to live in extremely fast-flowing waters, where they use their pectoral and pelvic fins to form a ‘suction cup’ in order to hang on to smooth rocks amongst rapids. This high-velocity habitat must be replicated in the home aquarium by use of extra powerheads (in addition to the return flow from filters) to create a river type effect. The surface of the water should be visibly moving to ensure that there is a very high amount of oxygenation within the water at all times. An additional air-pump is also a handy back-up. Without such a high level of oxygenation and water movement, Sewellia lineolata will not fare well at all. These delicate fish should really only be added to aquariums that are well mature. Such tanks will have a good established growth of algae for the fish to graze upon in order to consume the micro-organisms within, and will provide a source of nourishment whilst the fish may be adapting to the taking of prepared foods. The front glass can be wiped free of algae, but it is recommended that you allow algae to freely colonise the sides and back glass, and over the décor. Lighting should be bright in order to encourage a decent amount of algal growth. Ideally, the aquarium will be at least 36” long, and contain a multitude of hiding spots amongst rocks, cobbles and bogwood. Flat smooth rocks should be placed in the path of the flow, where these fish will often congregate just as they would do in their natural boulder-strewn habitats. Plants can be incorporated into the river style aquarium, but not all species will fare well under the extreme flow conditions. Having said this, many aquarists have had a good deal of success with Anubias species, Java moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri), Java fern (Microsorum sp.) and some species of Cryptocoryne. Plants are not found in great abundance in the natural habitat of Sewellia lineolata, so are not considered essential, but they will help with water quality and will make the aquarium look more aesthetically pleasing. Indeed, many aquarists have observed their loaches resting on the tips of broad leaved plants, ‘surfing’ in the current with obvious enjoyment. These spectacular fish deserve a specialist aquarium to meet their needs. Their quirky behaviour is something totally out of the ordinary and is a joy to observe. They can be kept alongside other sub-tropical current-loving species such as White Cloud Mountain Minnows and many species from the Danio family, plus other similar hillstream loach species. This species can be very sensitive to the shipping process, so be sure that your dealer rests them after import and whilst doing so, keeps them in suitable highly oxygenated conditions. May also be seen on sale as Gold Ring Butterfly Sucker or Reticulated Hillstream Loach.