Striped Butterfly Reticulated Tiger Hillstream Loach Algae Eater

Overview  Easily the most spectacularly marked of all the hillstream loaches, the Reticulated Hillstream Loach or Reticulated Butterfly Sucker is found in fast-flowing, rocky rapids in Central and Northern Vietnam. Perfectly adapted for life in fast moving waters, their heavily modified pectoral and anal fins form a suction-cup-like ventral surface that allows them to not only attach to almost any surface but actually move forward against strong current and even climb up sheer rock faces and waterfalls. Due to their specialized nature, they require fast, cool, well-oxygenated water not above 76F and strong current in the aquarium. They will readily feed on biofilms, algae, and certain prepared foods like Fluval Bug Bites Pleco Formula or Repashy Gel Diet. A social and outgoing species, they will thrive in groups of 5 or more and have successfully been bred in the aquarium. Size These fish range from 1 to 3 inches in length. Recommended Tank Parameters pH level range: 6.5 to 7