Hillstream Loach - Sewellia Lineolata

The exquisite Sewellia lineolata is a fairly recent introduction to the aquatics trade, and like other hillstream loach species, they do have specialist care requirements.. Habitat:. These beautiful "suckerbelly" loaches have evolved to live in extremely fast-flowing waters, where they use their pectoral and pelvic fins to form a "suction cup" in order to hang on to smooth rocks amongst rapids. This high-velocity habitat must be replicated in the home aquarium by use of extra powerheads (in addition to the return flow from filters) to create a river type effect. The surface of the water should be visibly moving to ensure that there is a very high amount of oxygenation within the water at all times.. Without such a high level of oxygenation and water movement, Sewellia lineolata will not fare well at all. These delicate fish should really only be added to aquariums that are well mature. Such tanks will have a good established growth of algae for the fish to graze upon in order to consume the micro-organisms within, and will provide a source of nourishment whilst the fish may be adapting to the taking of prepared foods. The front glass can be wiped free of algae, but it is…