GASTROMYZON SP. SK02 (RED TAIL HILLSTREAM LOACH) - FACT SHEET

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Scientific Name: Gastromyzon sp. SK02

• Common Names: Red Tail Hillstream Loach, Red Tail Borneo Sucker, SK02 Loach

• Family: Gastromyzontidae

• Origin: Amandit River basin, Meratus Mountains, South Kalimantan (Borneo, Indonesia)

• Adult Size: 1.8 to 2.2 inches (4.5 to 5.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5 to 8 years in mature setups

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and gregarious

• Aquarium Zone: Substrate, river rocks, glass, and hardscape surfaces

WATER PARAMETERS

• Temperature: 68 F to 76 F (20 C to 24.5 C) - Subtropical species sensitive to heat

• pH Range: 6.8 to 7.8

• Water Hardness: 2 to 12 dGH

• TDS: 50 to 150 ppm

• Dissolved Oxygen: Requires near 100% saturation

• Nitrates (NO3): Less than 10 ppm (Highly sensitive to organic waste)

TANK REQUIREMENTS AND CARE

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (80 liters) long footprint preferred

• Water Flow: Strong unidirectional flow (10x to 15x turnover per hour)

• Aeration: Heavy aeration via air stones or powerhead venturis

• Substrate and Hardscape: Smooth river stones, water-worn boulders, and fine sand. Avoid sharp gravel

• Group Size: Keep in groups of 5 or more individuals

• Compatible Tank Mates: Fast-water species such as Lentipes gobies, Sewellia, Stiphodon, and Danios

DIET AND FEEDING

• Primary Diet: Biofilm and green algae on rock surfaces (Aufwuchs). 10 to 12 hours of daily LED lighting recommended to promote algae growth

• Prepared Foods: High-quality spirulina gel food, algae wafers, and sinking kelp pellets

• Protein Supplements: Occasional frozen Artemia, Daphnia, or Cyclops. Avoid bloodworms as a staple diet