Hillstream Loach (Sewellia lineolata)

The Hillstream Loach is unlike any other freshwater fish. With its flat body, intricate spotted pattern, and unique ability to cling to rocks and glass, it’s often compared to a tiny freshwater stingray. These fascinating fish are constantly grazing on algae and biofilm, making them both entertaining and beneficial for your aquarium.

Hillstream Loaches thrive in mature aquariums with plenty of smooth rocks, driftwood, and strong water movement. They’re peaceful, active, and a great addition to community tanks with other non-aggressive fish.

Why people love Hillstream Loaches:

• Unique “mini stingray” appearance

• Constantly grazing on algae and biofilm

• Peaceful and community-friendly

• Great for planted aquariums with good water flow

• Fun to watch as they climb rocks and glass

• Full of personality

Care Info:

Scientific Name: Sewellia lineolata

Common Names: Hillstream Loach, Reticulated Hillstream Loach

Temperament: Peaceful

Adult Size: 2.5–3 inches

Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger

Temperature: 68–75°F

pH: 6.5–7.8

Diet: Omnivore

Difficulty: Intermediate

Hillstream Loaches do best in established aquariums with high oxygen levels and moderate to strong water flow. They love smooth rocks and other surfaces where algae and biofilm naturally grow. While they’ll spend their day grazing, they should also be fed algae wafers, Repashy foods, sinking pellets, and occasional frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

They get along well with other peaceful community fish and can even be kept in small groups in larger aquariums.

Shipping Info:

We ship fish on Monday and Tuesday so they arrive quickly and safely. Orders usually arrive Wednesday or Thursday.

All fish are packed carefully with insulation and heat or cold packs when needed.

Live arrival is guaranteed as long as someone is available to receive the package on the first delivery attempt.

Availability: We do our best to keep our inventory up to date, but quantities available are subject to change without notice. If we’re unable to fulfill part of your order, we’ll automatically refund the difference.

Color and size may vary depending on age and natural variation.