Fin's Fish Guide
The Reticulated hillstream loach (Sewellia lineolata) is a freshwater fish of the family Balitoridae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The reticulated hillstream loach is a hillstream loach (Gastromyzontidae) from Southeast Asia. The species has a flattened body with broad, horizontally spread pectoral and pelvic fins that together form a sucker, with which it clings to stones in fast-flowing water. Its body bears a fine net-like tiger pattern. It lives in rapids and riffles of small, clear mountain streams and rasps algae and growth from the stones. Through habitat loss it is considered vulnerable. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Reticulated hillstream loach?
The Reticulated hillstream loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Broad fins form a sucker for clamping onto stones in fast-flowing water; net-like tiger pattern.
Where does the Reticulated hillstream loach live?
The Reticulated hillstream loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia; rapids of mountain streams.
How big does the Reticulated hillstream loach get?
The Reticulated hillstream loach grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Reticulated hillstream loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Reticulated hillstream loach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Reticulated hillstream loach edible?
The Reticulated hillstream loach is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Reticulated hillstream loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reticulated hillstream loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sewellia
More from the family Balitoridae
Want the complete picture on the Reticulated hillstream loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reticulated hillstream loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.