Beautiful Hillstream Loach
NameBeautiful Hillstream Loach
Scientific NameSchistura mahnerti
Common NamesBeautiful Hillstream Loach, Mahnert's Loach, Banded Loach, Stone Loach
FamilyNemacheilidae
OriginSoutheast Asia, Thailand, Myanmar
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)3.5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesDanios, Rasboras, Other peaceful loaches (e.g., Kuhli Loaches), Small peaceful tetras, Corydoras catfish, Hillstream Loaches (other species)
Description
The Beautiful Hillstream Loach (*Schistura mahnerti*) is a slender, bottom-dwelling fish characterized by its light brown body adorned with distinct dark blotches along its sides and a prominent caudal spot. Native to fast-flowing streams of Southeast Asia, it thrives in well-oxygenated aquariums with plenty of hiding spots and a strong current. While generally peaceful, they can be territorial with conspecifics, so a group should be kept in a sufficiently sized tank.
