Fish Profiles at Pet Resources -- Spiney Head Hillstream Loach

Species Profiles -> Cyprinids -> Spiny Head Hillstream Loach

Spiney Head Hillstream Loach (Gastromyzon ctenocephalus )

Synonyms:	...	(Click to enlarge) Image courtesy of Mia Woodman
Stats:	Adult Size: 2 1/2 " (6 cm) Temp: 65-75 F (18-24 C) Tank: 36" (90 cm) minimum
Requirements:	Tank with many hiding places. Smooth rocks and current a must. Cooler River Tank environment.
Diet:	Small inverts, will accept almost anything. Sinking pellet foods especially enjoyed.
Breeding:	Some species breed in pits dug under rocks in a river tank habitat. Males have tubercles on their heads.
Sociability:	Keep in groups of at least 3, 5-7 preferrable. Not too aggressive, but not well able to defend themselves, so peaceful tankmates a must.
Related Spec:	Gastromyzon borneensis Gastromyzon contractus Gastromyzon danumensis Gastromyzon fasciatus Gastromyzon lepidogaster Gastromyzon megalepis Gastromyzon monticola Gastromyzon punculatus Gastromyzon ridens
Special Info:	This fish is often sold as a Hong Kong Pleco, or Butterfly Loaches. More info -- River Tanks Loaches Online Hillstreams Loaches Online River Tank Article Hillstream Loach Breeding Projects