Reticulated / Tiger Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata)

Overview:
The Reticulated Hillstream Loach, also known as the Tiger Hillstream Loach or Gold Ring Butterfly Sucker, is a fascinating and unique algae eater. Native to Southeast Asia, this 2.5-inch (6.4 cm) fish resembles a miniature stingray, with a flat underside and striking patterns of light-colored spots and dark brown stripes. Renowned for their ability to thrive in varied conditions, these loaches make an excellent addition to peaceful community tanks.

Key Features:

• Distinctive Appearance: Streamlined body with horizontal fins for gripping smooth surfaces and bold reticulated patterns.
• Versatile Habitat Requirements: Adaptable to a wide range of water temperatures and tank setups.
• Efficient Algae Control: Feeds on diatom algae, hair algae, and even black beard algae, keeping tanks clean.
• Community Compatibility: Peaceful temperament, suitable for tanks with similarly sized fish.
• Breeding Potential: Can breed in well-maintained aquariums with proper food and care.

Care Guidelines:

• Temperature: 65° - 80°F (20° - 27°C)
• pH: 7.0 - 7.8
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small group
• Water Flow: Tolerates various flow rates; prefers stable water quality.
• Filtration: Any suitable aquarium filter; ensure tight-fitting lids as loaches may climb out.
• Tank Setup: Provide plenty of hiding spaces like rocks, driftwood, and plants to reduce aggression.

Community Tank Recommendations:

• Tank Mates: Compatible with peaceful species like tetras, danios, livebearers, shrimp, snails, and goldfish. Avoid fin-nipping or aggressive fish.
• Grouping: Keep singly or in groups of three or more to prevent bullying.

Feeding:
In the wild, hillstream loaches consume small crustaceans, algae, and microorganisms on surfaces. In captivity, they require a diverse diet to thrive:

• Primary Diet: Algae on tank walls, rocks, driftwood, and plants.
• Supplemental Foods: Repashy gel food, sinking wafers, frozen spirulina brine shrimp, and blanched vegetables.
• Breeding Diet: Ample high-quality food increases breeding chances.

Breeding:

• Sexing: Females are plumper with broader heads; males have jagged pectoral fins.
• Breeding Setup: Established tank with mulm, algae, hiding spots, and gentle filtration.
• Fry Care: Feed with infusoria, microworms, live baby brine shrimp, and powdered fry food. Use pre-filter sponges to protect fry from being sucked into the filter.

Auction Details:
You are bidding on [quantity]. These loaches are sourced from stable aquarium setups and acclimated to diverse conditions. Note: While efforts are made to ensure quality, minor variations in appearance or behavior may occur.