Myer's Hillstream Loach - Pseudogastromzon myersi : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Myer's Hillstream Loach (Pseudogastromyzon myersi) is a species native to the mountainous regions of China. Renowned for their resilience and captivating appearance, Myers' Hillstream Loaches are sought after by enthusiasts for their peacefulness, unique behaviours and suitability for freshwater aquariums.
The Myer's Hillstream Loach thrives in a social environment and is best kept in groups of at least six individuals, particularly in adulthood. Compatible tankmates include various small Rasboras, Tetras, Hill Stream Loaches, Gobies, and other peaceful fish species. Additionally, due to their shared habitat preferences, many smaller freshwater Goby species make excellent companions. While the Borneo Sucker can coexist with Dwarf Shrimp, occasional predation on fry may occur. Consideration should also be given to peaceful bottom-dwelling fish to avoid competition for food resources.
To replicate their natural habitat, Myer's Hillstream Loaches require excellent water flow and aeration, as well as an abundance of rocky hiding places, smooth pebbles, and boulders for grazing. Bright lighting is recommended to stimulate algal growth; although plants are not essential, they contribute to water quality and provide additional hiding spots. Suitable plant species for high-flow environments include Anubias and Microsoreum, which can be anchored to rockwork or driftwood. In a well-configured aquarium, these loaches exhibit lively and engaging behaviour, often seen in constant motion throughout the tank.
The Myer's Hillstream Loach showcases a base colouration characterized by a mottled light and dark brown pattern, accentuated by distinct red edging along the dorsal fin and a yellowish-orange hue adorning the caudal fin. Notably, these loaches exhibit considerable variability in their colouration, with certain individuals displaying or lacking a red distal band on the dorsal fin and varying degrees of dark markings across their bodies. Additionally, their overall appearance may undergo subtle changes, appearing lighter or darker, influenced by environmental factors or their current mood.
Myer's Hillstream Loach Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Myer's Hillstream Loaches is relatively straightforward. While their physical appearance is strikingly similar, males tend to be larger and exhibit prominent nasal tubercles, particularly during breeding periods. Additionally, males may display more intense colouration compared to females.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pseudogastromzon myersi |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1932 |
| Other Names | Sucker-belly Loach, Red Fin sucker |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Gastromyzontidae |
| Genus | Pseudogastromyzon |
| Origins | Malaysia |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | NA |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 8 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 12 |
| ℉ | 68 - 75 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 24 |
Natural Habitat
The Myer's Hillstream Loach, native to Malaysia and Borneo in addition to Guangdong Province, China, thrives in swift-flowing, well-oxygenated mountain streams characterized by shallow, clear waters. Typically found amidst substrates comprised of sand, gravel, and smaller rocks interspersed with boulders, their natural habitats often lack aquatic vegetation but feature patches of submerged leaf litter.
Breeding
The breeding of Myers' Hillstream Loaches in aquariums is achievable with specific care measures. Facilitating large water changes with cool, soft water and providing a protein-rich diet can prompt spawning behaviour in these fish.
During courtship, males create multiple spawning sites by excavating holes beneath the edges of pebbles, achieved through tail movement to displace substrate. The male entices the female by performing intricate fin displays and physical interactions. Once the female is drawn to the prepared site, both fish take turns entering the spawning hole.
Fertilization of the eggs occurs, followed by an incubation period of approximately three days. Post-incubation, no parental care is observed. The hatched larvae remain within the substrate initially, feeding on organic matter and algae growth until they attain a body length of around 1 cm, at which point they transition to free-swimming behaviour.
Notably, the adult Loaches do not exhibit predatory behaviour toward their offspring, affording the option to either remove them from the breeding tank or allow them to coexist.
Diet & Feeding
In the wild, the Myer's Hillstream Loach forages primarily on algae, biofilms, and small invertebrates clinging to rocks and submerged surfaces. Replicating these conditions in an aquarium setting is essential for their nutritional needs. Offering a varied diet comprising algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber, and occasional live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp is recommended.
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