Butterfly Hillstream Loach
Beaufortia kweichowensis
Water Parameters
About
Chinese hillstream loach with a butterfly shape when viewed from above. Extremely flattened body with expanded fins. Beige‑brown mottled pattern. Requires a strong current and cold water to survive.
Behavior & Temperament
A peaceful, flattened‑body loach that adheres to surfaces. It can be territorial with conspecifics over feeding points. More active at dusk.
Feeding
Herbivore - algae, biofilm, spirulina wafers, cucumber, zucchini. Needs constant biofilm supply.
Breeding
Rarely reproduced in captivity. Requires very specific conditions (current, temperature, seasonality).
Care Notes
Strong current and cold water (max 23 °C) REQUIRED. High oxygenation. Smooth rocks and stones for biofilm. Specialized setup such as a “river tank.” Incompatible with tropical aquariums.
Compatibility
Peaceful with other cool-water fish. Ideal with white cloud minnows, river danios, other hillstream fish. Avoid tropical fish.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Beaufortia kweichowensis |
|---|---|
| Family | Gastromyzontidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 8.0 cm (3.1") |
| Min Tank | 100 L (26 gal) |
| Min Group | 2+ |
| Diet | Herbivore - algae, biofilm, spirulina wafers, cucumber, zucchini. Needs constant biofilm supply. |
| Temperament | A peaceful, flattened‑body loach that adheres to surfaces. It can be territorial with conspecifics over feeding points. More active at dusk. |
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