Homatula variegata – Red‑Tail Sucking Loach (~12–18 cm)

📦 Description

Homatula variegata is a mid‑sized stone loach native to the Wei‑He tributary of China’s Huang‑He (Yellow River) basin. Adults typically reach 12–18 cm, with a maximum length around 21 cm  The species features a slender, slightly flattened body with muted lateral banding and, as the common name implies, a reddish‑tinted tail in healthy individuals. It inhabits cool, clear, fast‑flowing freshwater environments and grazes on benthic invertebrates and biofilm. Territorial among conspecifics but generally peaceful, it is uncommon in the aquarium trade and rarely offered for sale outside specialist or bulk import listings

🧰 Care Instructions

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 g (115 L); wider footprint preferred for stable flow and swimming space

• Water Flow & Oxygenation: Strong unidirectional current with high dissolved oxygen, mimicking fast stream habitats

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 18–24 °C (65–75 °F)

  • pH: 6.4–7.5

  • Hardness: Moderate

• Substrate & Decor: Use fine sand or smooth gravel surface. Provide flat stones, driftwood, and ample hiding areas. Bright lighting encourages grazing surfaces.

• Diet: Omnivorous but insectivorous-leaning—feeds on benthic microfauna and detritus; supplement with frozen/live bloodworms, brine shrimp, and sinking pellets

• Behavior & Social Needs: Best kept in small groups of 4–6; they display subtle dominance behavior. Keep with calm, similarly sized stream fish

• Maintenance: Requires mature tank conditions with pristine water. Weekly partial water changes (20–30%) recommended. Avoid over-cleaning biofilm surfaces to allow natural grazing behavior