Zebra Gastromyzon

Gastromyzon zebrinus is one of the most visually distinctive hillstream loaches in the genus, its bold alternating bands of cream and deep brown recalling the pattern of a zebra when viewed from above. These markings provide superb camouflage against the sunlit, dappled substrate of its native clear-water hill streams in Borneo, where drifting light through overhanging vegetation creates a similarly striped optical effect on the riverbed.

In aquaria, G. zebrinus is an active and entertaining species that grazes persistently across all rock surfaces during daylight hours. It appreciates company of its own kind and does best in groups of at least three. Males are slimmer than females and may spar occasionally, but serious aggression is uncommon. The species is moderately tolerant of standard tropical temperatures if oxygenation is high, though cooler conditions are always preferable.

This species has been bred in captivity by dedicated hobbyists, with spawning occurring under flat rocks after conditioning with water changes and moderate temperature reduction. Fry are microscopic and require an established biofilm to survive their first weeks of life.

Water: 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.0, GH 3–12, KH 1–6; maintain vigorous flow — powerheads or circulation pumps should produce at least 10× turnover per hour. Tank: 80 L minimum; smooth boulders and flat slate pieces for grazing and shelter; avoid fine substrate which silts onto rock surfaces. Feeding: Biofilm and algae are primary foods; supplement with spirulina wafers, algae discs, and blanched spinach or courgette. Breeding: Deposit eggs under flat rocks; condition with modest temperature drop and increased water changes; fry require microfauna and biofilm. Compatibility: Peaceful; suitable for hillstream biotopes alongside other Gastromyzon species, danios, or small rasboras.