Hemimyzon Loach "Internet Celebrity" (Hemimyzon pengi) ≈ 6 cm SL

📦 Description

Hemimyzon pengi, often dubbed the "Internet Celebrity Loach," is a popular Hillstream Loach appreciated for its elegant, slightly flattened body and firm suction-disc mouth. Native to the fast-flowing streams of southern China, it thrives in high-oxygen environments where it grazes on biofilm and algae.  Its subtle markings and interactive behavior simply make it a true star.

This loach is ideal for specialist aquarists seeking a peaceful, active algae‑grazer that complements planted or river‑style aquaria.

🧰 Care Instructions

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons with extended length

• Substrate & Decor: Smooth sand or fine gravel; rounded river stones or flattish rocks as grazing surfaces

• Flow & Filtration: High water flow (≥5× turnover per hour) with excellent oxygenation and filtration

• Lighting: Moderate to bright to support algae/biofilm growth

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68–75 °F (20–24 °C)

• pH Range: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderate (2–12 °dGH)

Diet & Feeding

• Primary grazing on biofilm and algae

• Supplement with algae wafers or sinking spirulina pellets

• Occasional live or frozen offerings (bloodworms, brine shrimp); provide blanched vegetables sparingly

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Peaceful, best kept in groups of 3+

• Compatible with small community fish, shrimp, and snails

• Minimal territoriality among conspecifics

Maintenance

• Keep in a well-established tank with mature biofilm

• Weekly partial water changes (20–30%)

• Avoid completely clearing algae from critical surfaces