Stone Hillstream Loach

Balitora brucei is a broad-bodied and dorsoventrally flattened hillstream loach from the swift rivers of northern India and Myanmar. Its reticulated brown patterning blends seamlessly into riverbeds of rounded boulders and pebbles, and it uses powerful fin-pad adhesion to maintain position against current. An intermediate-difficulty species suitable for well-established hillstream biotopes with reliable high-flow equipment.

Water: 18-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, cool, well-oxygenated, moderate to high flow. Tank: Minimum 80 L, smooth river boulders and cobbles, powerhead flow. Feeding: Biofilm and algae; supplement sinking wafers, spirulina, blanched veg. Behaviour: Forages methodically across rock surfaces; retreats under boulders. Compatibility: Peaceful; suitable with medium hillstream community species.