Sucker-belly loach — Hillstream Loach – Beaufortia Kweichowensis
Sucker-belly loach — Hillstream Loach – Beaufortia Kweichowensis
The Hillstream Loach (Beaufortia kweichowensis), also known as the Sucker Belly Loach or Butterfly Loach, is one of the most fascinating freshwater fish available. Its entire body is flattened from top to bottom, and the pelvic and pectoral fins are fused into broad, wing-like structures that form a powerful sucker disc. This allows the fish to cling firmly to rocks even in the strongest current — an adaptation to its native fast-flowing mountain streams in southern China.
Care at a Glance
| Scientific Name | Beaufortia kweichowensis |
|---|---|
| Adult Size | 6–8 cm |
| Temperature | 18–24 °C |
| pH Range | 6.5–7.5 |
| Hardness | 5–15 dGH |
| Minimum Tank | 60 litres |
| Diet | Algae, biofilm, blanched vegetables, algae wafers |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Lifespan | 4–6 years |
| Care Level | Moderate |
Cool-Water Specialist
Hillstream Loaches are not tropical fish. They come from cool, fast-flowing mountain streams and prefer temperatures of 18–24 °C. In most UK homes, they do perfectly well without a heater — in fact, warm water (above 25 °C) is harmful to them. Pair with a powerhead or wavemaker to create the strong current they need.
River Manifold Setup
The ideal setup mimics a fast-flowing stream: smooth river pebbles, strong current from a powerhead, and highly oxygenated water. Hillstream loaches graze biofilm and algae from rock surfaces — watching them methodically work their way across a stone is endlessly fascinating. Their sucker-like body can cling to vertical glass and even the underside of rocks.
Tank Mates
Peaceful with other cool-water species. Compatible with white cloud mountain minnows, danios, and other hillstream loaches. Avoid warm-water tropical species.
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