Blue Tailed Hillstream Loach Hong Kong Spotted Butterfly Pleco 4cm

Overview

The Butterfly Hillstream Loach is a flattened, disc-shaped fish patterned with fine dark spots and a blue-tinged tail, clinging to glass and rocks with its sucker-like fins. It grazes biofilm and algae in strong current like a miniature ray. Native to fast rivers in southern China, it suits a cool, well-oxygenated river-style aquarium.

• Adult Size: Around 7–8 cm (3 in)
• Lifespan: 5–8 years

Origin

• Native to: Xi Jiang basin, southern China; Guizhou, Guangxi, Guangdong
• Habitat: Shallow, fast, oxygen-rich streams over rock and gravel

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, mainly algae and biofilm
• Preferred Foods: Algae, biofilm, algae wafers, sinking micro-pellets, bloodworm, blanched courgette
• Feeding Habits: Graze constantly; needs mature algae-covered rocks plus daily feeds

Tank Mates

• Best with: Other hillstream loaches, danios, White Cloud minnows, rasboras
• Avoid: Slow warm-water fish, large or aggressive species, food competitors

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Peaceful
• Territoriality: Males squabble over prime rocks; keep six or more

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Challenges: Needs strong flow, cool water and abundant biofilm; starves in new tanks

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, cool, highly oxygenated
• Temperature: 16–24°C (61–75°F)
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• Hardness: 2–15 dGH
• Flow: Strong, 10–15 times tank volume hourly
• Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres long, shallow footprint preferred

Final Notes

This is not a pleco and not a tropical fish: it needs cool water, powerful flow and a mature tank thick with biofilm, and it will fade in a standard warm community. Set up smooth river stones under bright light so algae grows, add a powerhead and airstone, and fit a tight lid as it climbs glass. Females are broader; males have squarer snouts. Given a river-style tank, it is hardy and endlessly watchable.