Asian River Hillstream Loach

This Garinae hillstream species represents a group of rheophilic cyprinids closely associated with fast-flowing river habitats across mainland Southeast Asia. With a torpedo-shaped body and subtle mottled colouration, it is adapted to moderate-to-fast river gradients rather than the extreme torrents preferred by Sewellia or Beaufortia. Intermediate in care demands, it bridges the gap between standard community loaches and specialist hillstream species.

Water: 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, well-oxygenated, moderate to strong flow. Tank: Minimum 80 L, smooth pebble substrate, open swimming lanes, powerhead. Feeding: Sinking pellets, algae wafers, frozen bloodworm, biofilm grazer. Behaviour: Active mid-water and bottom swimmer; schools in open current. Compatibility: Peaceful; good with danios, small barbs and other hillstream species.