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Longtail hillstream loach (Lepturichthys fimbriata) — Balitoridae

Longtail hillstream loach

Lepturichthys fimbriata
Family: Balitoridae

The Longtail hillstream loach (Lepturichthys fimbriata) is a fish of the family Balitoridae that grows up to 12 cm.

Length
12 cm
Substrate
Stone or rock
Danger
Harmless

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Description

The longtail hillstream loach is a hillstream loach (Balitoridae) from fast-flowing, clear fresh water of China in East Asia. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a flattened, streamlined body with broad, horizontally spread pectoral and pelvic fins and a strikingly long, thin tail base, adapted to cling to smooth stones in strong current. As a bottom-dweller it rasps algae and biofilm from rocks in oxygen-rich streams. The fish is harmless to humans.

Frequently asked questions

How do you recognise the Longtail hillstream loach?

The Longtail hillstream loach is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.

Where does the Longtail hillstream loach live?

The Longtail hillstream loach is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.

How big does the Longtail hillstream loach get?

The Longtail hillstream loach grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.

Is the Longtail hillstream loach dangerous to humans?

No, the Longtail hillstream loach is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.

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All data

Identification

English name
Longtail hillstream loach sourced
Scientific name
Lepturichthys fimbriata
Family
Balitoridae

Appearance

Size class
Small
Max length (cm)
12 inferred
Dominant colour
Brown sourced
Pattern
Spots sourced
Tail shape
Forked inferred

Habitat & distribution

Substrate
Stone or rock sourced
Origin
Native inferred

Behaviour & biology

Territorial
No inferred
Reproduction
Separate sexes inferred
Sexual dimorphism
No inferred
Seasonality
Present year-round in its habitat; no pronounced seasonality known. inferred

For anglers

Regulations source
FishBase ↗ inferred

Safety

Danger to humans
Harmless verified
First aid
This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status. verified

Status & sources

Sources
FishBase via GBIF (DwC-A), CC-BY-NC 4.0

More from the family Balitoridae

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