Hillstream Loach
Sewellia lineolata
What you need to keep a Hillstream Loach
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pH
6.5–7.5
Temperature
18–24 °C
Max size
8 cm
Min tank
80 L
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Hillstream Loach.
What Hillstream Loach costs in South Africa
8 price points from 7 shops over 90 days
R105
cheapest of 6 shops today
SA median R143 across 7 shops over the last 90 days.
7 shops
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Hillstream Loach is a fascinating freshwater fish native to fast-flowing streams in Southeast Asia. Its flattened body and specialized fins allow it to cling to rocks in strong currents. They are peaceful algae grazers that do best in well-oxygenated aquariums with good water flow and smooth river rocks. Their unique appearance and interesting behaviour make them a prized addition to community tanks.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Hillstream Loach healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 80L aquarium suits Hillstream Loach. Provide hiding spots and stable, well-filtered water; it suits a community setup.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6.5–7.5 and 18–24°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Herbivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Peaceful. Keep it in a group for natural behaviour.
Tankmates
Choose tankmates of similar size and temperament with the same water needs. Avoid fin-nippers and anything large enough to eat it.
Breeding
Breeding success with Hillstream Loach depends on the line and water chemistry; ask your shop about proven pairs.
Settling this fish in?
Condition the tap water, seed the filter, test through the first weeks — most early losses trace back to one of those.
10% off your first order, no code, at checkout
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.
Market intelligence
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
Price history — last 90 days
SA price range this month: R105–165 · Average: R152
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Demand by province
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