Hillstream Loach

Hillstream Loach

Sewellia lineolata

Also known as: Reticulated Hillstream Loach, Butterfly Loach

💧 Freshwater ✌️ Peaceful 🟡 Moderate 🌿 Herbivore Schooling (3+)

Flat, disc-shaped loach adapted to fast-flowing streams. Clings to rocks and glass, eating biofilm and algae.

Tank Size

20 gal
minimum (30+ preferred)

Temperature

65–75°F
18–24°C

pH Range

6.5–7.5
water acidity

Max Size

3"
7.6 cm

Lifespan

8–10 years
typical in captivity

Swim Level

Bottom
preferred zone

Care Notes

Needs high flow, high oxygen, and cool water. Not a typical tropical fish — requires specific setup.

Feeding

Biofilm, algae, and algae wafers. Needs established surfaces to graze.

Compatible Tank Mates

Neon Tetra 1.5" Cardinal Tetra 2" Congo Tetra 3.5" Glowlight Tetra 1.5" Harlequin Rasbora 2" Celestial Pearl Danio 1" Zebra Danio 2" Bloodfin Tetra 2" Lemon Tetra 1.5" Black Neon Tetra 1.5" Diamond Tetra 2.5" Scissortail Rasbora 3.5"

Use Caution With

Rummy Nose Tetra 2" Ember Tetra 0.8" Black Skirt Tetra 2.5" Serpae Tetra 1.75" Chili Rasbora 0.7" Buenos Aires Tetra 3" Green Neon Tetra 1" Silvertip Tetra 2" Phoenix Rasbora 0.8" Exclamation Point Rasbora 0.7" Colombian Tetra 2.5" Silver Hatchetfish 2.5"

Incompatible With

White Cloud Mountain Minnow 1.5" Angelfish 6" Oscar 14" Discus 8" German Blue Ram 2.5" Jack Dempsey 10" Convict Cichlid 5" Green Terror 8" Blood Parrot Cichlid 8" Texas Cichlid 12" Pike Cichlid 10" Salvini Cichlid 8"

Check Compatibility

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