{"product_id":"pseudogastromyzon-fasciatusinternet-famous-hillstream-loach-species-profile","title":"Pseudogastromyzon fasciatus(Internet-famous hillstream loach) — Species Profile","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"1109\" data-start=\"1056\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1109\" data-start=\"1060\"\u003ePseudogastromyzon fasciatus — Species Profile\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1157\" data-start=\"1111\"\u003e← Back to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/eiraaquatics.com\/collections\/loach\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1121\" data-end=\"1140\"\u003eLoach\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e (genus overview)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1779\" data-start=\"1159\"\u003eIn June 2019, a short video recorded by a freshwater fish enthusiast in a mountain stream in Zhejiang Province went viral on Chinese social media, receiving nearly one million likes. The footage showed a small endemic \u003cstrong\u003eloach \u003c\/strong\u003efirmly attached to smooth stones in clear running water, displaying a vivid yellow body coloration and a striking black-and-white dorsal fin.\u003cbr data-end=\"1527\" data-start=\"1524\"\u003eThe video was widely shared by major national media outlets, including \u003cem data-end=\"1614\" data-start=\"1598\"\u003ePeople’s Daily\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem data-end=\"1652\" data-start=\"1619\"\u003eChina Central Television (CCTV)\u003c\/em\u003e, as well as numerous science communicators, significantly increasing public awareness of China’s native freshwater fish fauna.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1962\" data-start=\"1781\"\u003eIt was through this phenomenon-level exposure that \u003cem data-end=\"1861\" data-start=\"1832\"\u003ePseudogastromyzon fasciatus\u003c\/em\u003e acquired its widely recognized nickname among aquarists: \u003cstrong data-end=\"1962\" data-start=\"1919\"\u003ethe “Internet-famous hillstream loach.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2085\" data-start=\"1964\"\u003e📸 The images used in this article are extracted from the original viral video that sparked widespread attention in 2019.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2090\" data-start=\"2087\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"2134\" data-start=\"2092\"\u003eI. Basic Information (Species Overview)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"3032\" data-start=\"2136\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2162\" data-start=\"2136\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2162\" data-start=\"2138\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2155\" data-start=\"2138\"\u003eChinese name:\u003c\/strong\u003e 拟腹吸鳅\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2222\" data-start=\"2163\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2222\" data-start=\"2165\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2187\" data-start=\"2165\"\u003eAquarist nickname:\u003c\/strong\u003e Internet-famous Hillstream Loach\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2288\" data-start=\"2223\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2288\" data-start=\"2225\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2245\" data-start=\"2225\"\u003eScientific name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-end=\"2275\" data-start=\"2246\"\u003ePseudogastromyzon fasciatus\u003c\/em\u003e Chen, 1980\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2321\" data-start=\"2289\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2321\" data-start=\"2291\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2302\" data-start=\"2291\"\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Gastromyzontidae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2356\" data-start=\"2322\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2356\" data-start=\"2324\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2334\" data-start=\"2324\"\u003eGenus:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-end=\"2354\" data-start=\"2335\"\u003ePseudogastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2526\" data-start=\"2357\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2526\" data-start=\"2359\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2376\" data-start=\"2359\"\u003eNative range:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mountain streams of Fujian and Zhejiang Provinces, China, including the Min River, Ou River, Feiyun River, Aojiang River, and Qiantang River basins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2614\" data-start=\"2527\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2614\" data-start=\"2529\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2554\" data-start=\"2529\"\u003eMaximum total length:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 7 cm (males typically slightly larger than females)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2682\" data-start=\"2615\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2682\" data-start=\"2617\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2630\" data-start=\"2617\"\u003eLifespan:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 4–5 years under proper captive care\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2985\" data-start=\"2683\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2985\" data-start=\"2685\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2709\" data-start=\"2685\"\u003eConservation status:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"2712\" data-start=\"2709\"\u003eEndemic to China; not listed under national or provincial key protected wildlife lists.\u003cbr data-end=\"2804\" data-start=\"2801\"\u003eWild populations are subject to general protection under the Fisheries Law of the People’s Republic of China, and unlicensed collection is prohibited in most distribution areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3032\" data-start=\"2986\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3032\" data-start=\"2988\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3001\" data-start=\"2988\"\u003eEndemism:\u003c\/strong\u003e Globally restricted to China\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3205\" data-start=\"3034\"\u003e📌 This species has \u003cstrong data-end=\"3092\" data-start=\"3054\"\u003eno established English common name\u003c\/strong\u003e; international scientific communication relies exclusively on the scientific name \u003cem data-end=\"3204\" data-start=\"3175\"\u003ePseudogastromyzon fasciatus\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3210\" data-start=\"3207\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"3258\" data-start=\"3212\"\u003eII. Natural Distribution and Native Habitat\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3290\" data-start=\"3260\"\u003e1. Geographic Distribution\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3374\" data-start=\"3291\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"3320\" data-start=\"3291\"\u003ePseudogastromyzon fasciatus\u003c\/em\u003e is primarily found in mountain stream systems within:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"3605\" data-start=\"3376\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3495\" data-start=\"3376\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3495\" data-start=\"3378\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3398\" data-start=\"3378\"\u003eFujian Province:\u003c\/strong\u003e Upper and middle Min River (Youxi, Jian’ou, Nanping), Mulan River, headwaters of the Jin River\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3605\" data-start=\"3496\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3605\" data-start=\"3498\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3520\" data-start=\"3498\"\u003eZhejiang Province:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ou River, Feiyun River, Aojiang River, and upper tributaries of the Qiantang River\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3644\" data-start=\"3607\"\u003e2. Native Habitat Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"4152\" data-start=\"3645\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3739\" data-start=\"3645\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3739\" data-start=\"3647\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3662\" data-start=\"3647\"\u003eWater type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shaded mountain streams, shallow riffles below waterfalls, rocky riverbeds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3828\" data-start=\"3740\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3828\" data-start=\"3742\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3751\" data-start=\"3742\"\u003eFlow:\u003c\/strong\u003e Slow to moderate current with consistently high dissolved oxygen (\u0026gt;6 mg\/L)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3895\" data-start=\"3829\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3895\" data-start=\"3831\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3845\" data-start=\"3831\"\u003eSubstrate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth granite slabs, shale, or rounded cobbles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4059\" data-start=\"3896\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4059\" data-start=\"3898\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3920\" data-start=\"3898\"\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Typically 14–22 °C in the wild; in captivity, individuals may tolerate temperatures up to 28 °C under stable, well-oxygenated conditions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4152\" data-start=\"4060\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4152\" data-start=\"4062\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4082\" data-start=\"4062\"\u003eWater chemistry:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clear water; pH 6.5–7.2; soft to moderately soft water (GH 3–6 dGH)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4272\" data-start=\"4154\"\u003e👉 The presence of this species is widely regarded as an indicator of good water quality and intact stream ecosystems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"4277\" data-start=\"4274\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"4319\" data-start=\"4279\"\u003eIII. Morphology and Sexual Dimorphism\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"4346\" data-start=\"4321\"\u003e1. General Morphology\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"4954\" data-start=\"4347\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4429\" data-start=\"4347\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4429\" data-start=\"4349\"\u003eStrongly dorsoventrally flattened body with an oval, suction-disc-like profile\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4504\" data-start=\"4430\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4504\" data-start=\"4432\"\u003eProportionally balanced head with a rounded snout; no suborbital spine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4609\" data-start=\"4505\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4609\" data-start=\"4507\"\u003eInferior mouth; pectoral and pelvic fins expanded and connected, forming a powerful adhesive surface\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4663\" data-start=\"4610\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4663\" data-start=\"4612\"\u003eAdults may display a vivid yellow body coloration\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4791\" data-start=\"4664\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4791\" data-start=\"4666\"\u003eBody marked with 12–18 dark vertical bands extending from the dorsum toward the belly, narrowing toward the caudal peduncle\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4887\" data-start=\"4792\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4887\" data-start=\"4794\"\u003eDorsal fin with a white base densely patterned with black spots and a distinct black margin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4954\" data-start=\"4888\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4954\" data-start=\"4890\"\u003eVentral surface silvery white, creating strong visual contrast\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"5003\" data-start=\"4956\"\u003e2. Secondary Sexual Characteristics (Males)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"5253\" data-start=\"5004\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5064\" data-start=\"5004\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5064\" data-start=\"5006\"\u003eIntensified yellow coloration during the breeding season\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5148\" data-start=\"5065\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5148\" data-start=\"5067\"\u003eSubtle orange-red or purplish sheen along the edges of pectoral and pelvic fins\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5203\" data-start=\"5149\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5203\" data-start=\"5151\"\u003eFine white nuptial tubercles on the snout and head\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5253\" data-start=\"5204\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5253\" data-start=\"5206\"\u003eSlight elongation of the first dorsal fin ray\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"5289\" data-start=\"5255\"\u003e3. Sex Identification (Adults)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"TyagGW_tableContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"5605\" data-start=\"5291\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"5316\" data-start=\"5291\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"5316\" data-start=\"5291\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"5299\" data-start=\"5291\"\u003eTrait\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"5306\" data-start=\"5299\"\u003eMale\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"5316\" data-start=\"5306\"\u003eFemale\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"5605\" data-start=\"5331\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"5413\" data-start=\"5331\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"5344\" data-start=\"5331\"\u003eBody shape\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"5371\" data-start=\"5344\"\u003eMore slender; up to 7 cm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"5413\" data-start=\"5371\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eFuller abdomen, especially when gravid\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"5501\" data-start=\"5414\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"5427\" data-start=\"5414\"\u003eColoration\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"5471\" data-start=\"5427\"\u003eBrighter yellow; stronger dorsal contrast\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"5501\" data-start=\"5471\"\u003eSlightly duller coloration\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"5605\" data-start=\"5502\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"5513\" data-start=\"5502\"\u003eBehavior\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"5561\" data-start=\"5513\"\u003eMore active; display behavior during breeding\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"5605\" data-start=\"5561\"\u003eTypically stationary, focused on grazing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"5610\" data-start=\"5607\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"5639\" data-start=\"5612\"\u003eIV. Behavior and Ecology\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"5953\" data-start=\"5641\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5732\" data-start=\"5641\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5732\" data-start=\"5643\"\u003ePrimarily adheres to rock surfaces during daylight; activity increases at dawn and dusk\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5821\" data-start=\"5733\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5821\" data-start=\"5735\"\u003eLocomotion consists of pectoral-fin “walking” combined with short tail-assisted hops\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5886\" data-start=\"5822\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5886\" data-start=\"5824\"\u003eNon-aggressive; feeds exclusively on algae films and biofilm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5953\" data-start=\"5887\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5953\" data-start=\"5889\"\u003eWeak territoriality; small groups generally coexist peacefully\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6069\" data-start=\"5955\"\u003e💡 This species functions as a \u003cstrong data-end=\"6016\" data-start=\"5986\"\u003emicro-ecosystem maintainer\u003c\/strong\u003e, regulating algal growth through continuous grazing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"6074\" data-start=\"6071\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"6126\" data-start=\"6076\"\u003eV. Captive Care Difficulty and Suitable Keepers\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"6168\" data-start=\"6128\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6168\" data-start=\"6128\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6168\" data-start=\"6130\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"6145\" data-start=\"6130\"\u003eCare level:\u003c\/strong\u003e ★★★☆☆ (Intermediate)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6189\" data-start=\"6170\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"6187\" data-start=\"6170\"\u003eSuitable for:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"6399\" data-start=\"6190\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6253\" data-start=\"6190\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6253\" data-start=\"6192\"\u003eAquarists experienced with hillstream or cool-water aquaria\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6346\" data-start=\"6254\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6346\" data-start=\"6256\"\u003eKeepers capable of maintaining stable water quality, moderate flow, and clean substrates\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6399\" data-start=\"6347\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6399\" data-start=\"6349\"\u003eObservers interested in natural benthic behavior\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6427\" data-start=\"6401\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"6425\" data-start=\"6401\"\u003eNot recommended for:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"6524\" data-start=\"6428\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6450\" data-start=\"6428\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6450\" data-start=\"6430\"\u003eComplete beginners\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6524\" data-start=\"6451\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6524\" data-start=\"6453\"\u003eEnvironments where water temperature cannot be kept at or below 28 °C\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6635\" data-start=\"6526\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"6555\" data-start=\"6526\"\u003eCommon causes of failure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Substrate fouling, stagnant water flow, and inappropriate high-protein feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6795\" data-start=\"6637\"\u003e✅ \u003cstrong data-end=\"6653\" data-start=\"6639\"\u003eKey point:\u003c\/strong\u003e Under conditions of adequate oxygenation, gentle water circulation, and temperatures ≤28 °C, \u003cem data-end=\"6761\" data-start=\"6747\"\u003eP. fasciatus\u003c\/em\u003e can be maintained in good health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"6800\" data-start=\"6797\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"6839\" data-start=\"6802\"\u003eVI. Aquarium Setup Recommendations\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"6861\" data-start=\"6841\"\u003e1. Aquarium Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"7093\" data-start=\"6862\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6906\" data-start=\"6862\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6906\" data-start=\"6864\"\u003ePair: 40 cm tank (approximately 30–40 L)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6973\" data-start=\"6907\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6973\" data-start=\"6909\"\u003eSmall group (3–5 individuals): 60 cm tank (approximately 60 L)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"7093\" data-start=\"6974\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7093\" data-start=\"6976\"\u003eCompatible with mid- and upper-water species (e.g., \u003cem data-end=\"7043\" data-start=\"7028\"\u003eOpsariichthys\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-end=\"7052\" data-start=\"7045\"\u003eZacco\u003c\/em\u003e) to utilize vertical space efficiently\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"7118\" data-start=\"7095\"\u003e2. Water Parameters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"TyagGW_tableContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"7428\" data-start=\"7120\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"7161\" data-start=\"7120\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"7161\" data-start=\"7120\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7132\" data-start=\"7120\"\u003eParameter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7152\" data-start=\"7132\"\u003eRecommended Range\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7161\" data-start=\"7152\"\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"7428\" data-start=\"7176\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"7237\" data-start=\"7176\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7190\" data-start=\"7176\"\u003eTemperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7201\" data-start=\"7190\"\u003e16–28 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7237\" data-start=\"7201\"\u003e≤28 °C for long-term maintenance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"7283\" data-start=\"7238\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7243\" data-start=\"7238\"\u003epH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7253\" data-start=\"7243\"\u003e6.5–7.5\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7283\" data-start=\"7253\"\u003eSlightly acidic to neutral\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"7326\" data-start=\"7284\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7289\" data-start=\"7284\"\u003eGH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7299\" data-start=\"7289\"\u003e3–8 dGH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7326\" data-start=\"7299\"\u003eSoft to moderately soft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"7369\" data-start=\"7327\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7346\" data-start=\"7327\"\u003eDissolved oxygen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7356\" data-start=\"7346\"\u003e\u0026gt;6 mg\/L\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7369\" data-start=\"7356\"\u003eEssential\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"7428\" data-start=\"7370\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"7383\" data-start=\"7370\"\u003eWater flow\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"7404\" data-start=\"7383\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eGentle to moderate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"7428\" data-start=\"7404\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eAvoid stagnant zones\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"7459\" data-start=\"7430\"\u003e3. Aquascaping (Critical)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"7778\" data-start=\"7460\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"7517\" data-start=\"7460\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7517\" data-start=\"7462\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"7476\" data-start=\"7462\"\u003eSubstrate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fine river sand (1–2 mm), 2–3 cm depth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"7621\" data-start=\"7518\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7621\" data-start=\"7520\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"7534\" data-start=\"7520\"\u003eHardscape:\u003c\/strong\u003e Abundant smooth stones and slate, preconditioned to grow diatoms or green spot algae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"7724\" data-start=\"7622\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7724\" data-start=\"7624\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"7640\" data-start=\"7624\"\u003eFlow design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Filter outlets directed toward the substrate and rockwork to maintain circulation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"7778\" data-start=\"7725\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7778\" data-start=\"7727\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"7740\" data-start=\"7727\"\u003eLighting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate intensity, 6–8 hours daily\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7884\" data-start=\"7780\"\u003e💡 Algae-covered stones function as the species’ natural feeding platform and are essential for success.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"7889\" data-start=\"7886\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"7915\" data-start=\"7891\"\u003eVII. Diet and Feeding\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"8254\" data-start=\"7917\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"7989\" data-start=\"7917\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7989\" data-start=\"7919\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"7936\" data-start=\"7919\"\u003ePrimary food:\u003c\/strong\u003e Naturally occurring algae films on rocks and glass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8078\" data-start=\"7990\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8078\" data-start=\"7992\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"8016\" data-start=\"7992\"\u003eSupplementary foods:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sinking spirulina wafers, blanched spinach, spirulina paste\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8163\" data-start=\"8079\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8163\" data-start=\"8081\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"8091\" data-start=\"8081\"\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bloodworms, tubifex, floating pellets, high-protein carnivorous feeds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8254\" data-start=\"8164\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8254\" data-start=\"8166\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"8188\" data-start=\"8166\"\u003eFeeding frequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small amounts every other day; avoid leftover food accumulation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"8259\" data-start=\"8256\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"8292\" data-start=\"8261\"\u003eVIII. Tankmate Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8319\" data-start=\"8294\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"8317\" data-start=\"8294\"\u003eSuitable tankmates:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"8454\" data-start=\"8320\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8386\" data-start=\"8320\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8386\" data-start=\"8322\"\u003eMid- and upper-water fish: \u003cem data-end=\"8364\" data-start=\"8349\"\u003eOpsariichthys\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-end=\"8373\" data-start=\"8366\"\u003eZacco\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-end=\"8384\" data-start=\"8375\"\u003eRhodeus\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8454\" data-start=\"8387\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8454\" data-start=\"8389\"\u003eBenthic companions: \u003cem data-end=\"8422\" data-start=\"8409\"\u003eRhinogobius\u003c\/em\u003e spp., small freshwater shrimp\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8483\" data-start=\"8456\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"8481\" data-start=\"8456\"\u003eUnsuitable tankmates:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"8612\" data-start=\"8484\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8527\" data-start=\"8484\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8527\" data-start=\"8486\"\u003eLoricariids and large “cleaner” catfish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8578\" data-start=\"8528\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8578\" data-start=\"8530\"\u003eAggressive species such as bettas and cichlids\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8612\" data-start=\"8579\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8612\" data-start=\"8581\"\u003eHigh-density benthic stocking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"8617\" data-start=\"8614\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"8655\" data-start=\"8619\"\u003eIX. Legal and Conservation Notice\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"9045\" data-start=\"8657\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8731\" data-start=\"8657\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8731\" data-start=\"8659\"\u003eNot listed under national or provincial protected wildlife regulations\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8816\" data-start=\"8732\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8816\" data-start=\"8734\"\u003eWild populations are protected under local fisheries regulations in most regions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8888\" data-start=\"8817\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8888\" data-start=\"8819\"\u003eIllegal collection methods and unlicensed harvesting are prohibited\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"8962\" data-start=\"8889\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"8962\" data-start=\"8891\"\u003eSupport captive-bred individuals; avoid specimens of uncertain origin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"9045\" data-start=\"8963\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"9045\" data-start=\"8965\"\u003ePractice ethical field observation: photograph only, do not disturb or collect\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"9050\" data-start=\"9047\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"9065\" data-start=\"9052\"\u003eX. Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"9266\" data-start=\"9067\"\u003eSome aquarists value \u003cem data-end=\"9117\" data-start=\"9088\"\u003ePseudogastromyzon fasciatus\u003c\/em\u003e as an efficient algae grazer in hillstream aquaria;\u003cbr data-end=\"9172\" data-start=\"9169\"\u003eothers dedicate entire tanks to observing its slow, deliberate movement across stone surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"9479\" data-start=\"9268\"\u003eWhether appreciated for its utility or its beauty, this species deserves thoughtful care—\u003cbr data-end=\"9360\" data-start=\"9357\"\u003enot because it is “useful,” but because it represents an irreplaceable component of China’s mountain stream ecosystems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"9660\" data-start=\"9481\"\u003eWith temperatures kept below 28 °C, gentle water circulation, and algae-rich stones,\u003cbr data-end=\"9568\" data-start=\"9565\"\u003eit will remain quietly attached, steadily grazing, and subtly luminous within your aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eira Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46327440408765,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7181\/5869\/files\/ezgif-frame-002_14d0957a-2a8a-4ee3-bc52-557ead05adc0.png?v=1769837309","url":"https:\/\/eiraaquatics.com\/products\/pseudogastromyzon-fasciatusinternet-famous-hillstream-loach-species-profile","provider":"Eira Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}