Erromyzon sinensis ‘Red Spotted’ – Red‑Spotted Chinese Hillstream Loach (≈5 cm)

📦 Product Description

The Red‑Spotted Chinese Hillstream Loach, Erromyzon sinensis, is a rare and striking hillstream loach distinguished by its subtle red spotting against a mottled body. Native to fast-flowing, oxygen-rich streams in Guangxi, China, this species is adapted to cling tightly to rocks with specialized fin morphology.

Growing to about 5 cm (2″), it brings elegance and function to a biotope tank. Its red spots and specialized grazing behavior make it a standout choice for high-current, nature‑style aquariums.

🧰 Care Instructions

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: At least 23 US gallons (≈90 L) with a long footprint.

• Substrate & Decor: Use smooth gravel or sand with water-worn rocks and pebbles; aged driftwood is acceptable if leached tannins have dissipated.

• Flow & Aeration: Strong water movement is essential—aim for turnover of 10–15× tank volume per hour using oversized filter and powerheads.

• Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting promotes algae growth on surfaces.

Water Conditions

• Temperature: ~64–75 °F (18–24 °C)

• pH Range: ~6.0–7.5 (or up to 8.0)

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (up to ~12 dGH)

Diet

• Grazes naturally on biofilm and microalgae on rocks.

• Supplement with algae wafers, spirulina sinking pellets, flake foods, blanched vegetables (spinach, kale, zucchini), and occasional live/frozen protein such as daphnia or bloodworms.

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Generally peaceful but may show mild territoriality among conspecifics.

• Best kept in groups of 4 or more individuals to encourage natural behavior and reduce stress.

• Compatible with other peaceful, fast-swimming species like Garra, Barilius, Devario, Rasbora, gobies, and non-aggressive loaches.

Maintenance

• Stable, mature tank with established algae growth is crucial.

• Weekly partial water changes (20–30%) to maintain pristine, oxygenated water.

• Avoid over-cleaning algae from surfaces, as loaches rely on these for grazing.