Description
Hillstream Loach – Unique, Hardy, and Algae-Eating Bottom Dweller
Add a fascinating and efficient bottom dweller to your aquarium with the Hillstream Loach (Gastromyzon species), a stunningly unique fish that thrives in fast-flowing waters and is a natural algae-eater. Known for its flattened body, large pectoral fins, and remarkable swimming abilities, this loach is a captivating addition to aquariums that mimic the fast-moving streams and rivers of Southeast Asia.
With its striking appearance—featuring a body that appears perfectly suited for life in strong currents—the Hillstream Loach has evolved to navigate fast-flowing waters using its specialized fins. Its colors can vary, often displaying shades of brown, green, and yellow with intricate patterns, giving it a camouflage-like effect against rocky substrates. This loach is most active during the day, constantly foraging for food on the substrate, rocks, and tank surfaces.
A peaceful and hardy species, the Hillstream Loach is an excellent choice for aquariums that are set up to simulate a riverine environment with strong water flow. It is highly efficient at consuming algae, biofilm, and detritus, making it an invaluable addition to tanks with algae issues. Since it is a peaceful species, it can easily coexist with other community fish that enjoy similar water conditions.
Key Features:
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Unique Appearance: Flattened body and large pectoral fins designed for life in fast-moving waters, with natural camouflage patterns
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Algae-Eating Machine: Constantly forages for algae, detritus, and biofilm, helping to keep your aquarium clean
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Peaceful & Hardy: A calm species that thrives in well-maintained tanks with proper water flow and can coexist with other peaceful tankmates
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Active Daytime Behavior: Most active during the day, providing interesting and constant movement in your tank as it climbs rocks and swims against the current
Care Guidelines:
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Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a small group (3 or more)
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Water Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
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pH Range: 6.5–7.5
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Water Flow: Requires moderate to strong water flow to mimic its natural riverine habitat
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Diet: Primarily algae, but will also accept sinking pellets, live or frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and vegetable matter
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Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care
Tip: The Hillstream Loach thrives in aquariums with strong water currents, so consider using a powerful filter or water pump to create a flowing environment. Providing plenty of rocks, caves, and driftwood allows them to seek shelter, which helps them feel secure. A fine, sandy substrate is ideal for their sensitive barbels, which they use to forage.
The Hillstream Loach is a perfect choice for those looking to add a unique, algae-eating species to their tank. Its incredible swimming ability, peaceful temperament, and natural algae-eating habits make it a valuable and fascinating addition to any freshwater aquarium.
Click & Collect
Livestock will only be bagged once you arrive, or if you contact us in advance to request it ready beforehand.
Local Delivery
Order anything from our in-store range and have it delivered right to you.
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Minimum spend: £50
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Delivery up to 10 miles: £10
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Delivery up to 25 miles: £20
Distances are measured “as the crow flies”, not by road.
Once your order is placed, we’ll be in touch to arrange a suitable delivery date and time.
Please note, delivery may take a little longer as we often group orders together to build an efficient delivery run.
Important: If you’re ordering a large aquarium, please ensure someone is available to help unload the van on arrival.
Dry Goods Delivery
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DPD Next Day: 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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DX Next Day (Heavy Items & Small Aquariums): 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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Express Pallet: 1–3 working days
If you'd like to add more items to an existing order that hasn't yet been dispatched, please place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to combine the orders.
Please note: We currently only dispatch parcels Wednesday to Friday.
Pre-Order
Want the full details? Check out our Terms & Conditions.
Livestock Delivery
Thursday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Wednesday afternoon
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Delivered Thursday before 1pm
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Order by Wednesday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Friday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Thursday afternoon
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Delivered Friday before 1pm
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Order by Thursday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Saturday Delivery – £29
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Dispatched Friday afternoon
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Delivered Saturday before 1pm
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Order by Friday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
📦 Want to Add to an Existing Order?
No problem! Just place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to link it with your original one (as long as it hasn’t been dispatched yet).
🛒 Dry Goods Now Included!
You can now include dry goods in your livestock delivery – perfect for topping up supplies in one go.
❄️ Please note: We can’t send frozen food with livestock – please order frozen items separately.
⚠️ Delivery Exclusions
Unfortunately, we’re unable to deliver livestock to the following postcodes:
Scotland & Isles:
AB30–AB56, DD8–DD10, DG3–DG9, DG12–DG14, FK17–FK21, KA18–KA19, KA26–KA30, PA20–PA38, PA80, PH3–PH40
Cornwall Isles: TR21–TR25
All of the following postcodes are excluded:
BT, HS, IM, IV, JE, KW
Plus Channel Islands and Shetland Islands
Payment & Security
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