Fin's Fish Guide
The Saddled hillstream loach (Homaloptera orthogoniata) is a freshwater fish of the family Balitoridae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The Saddled hillstream loach is a hillstream loach (Balitoridae) from fast-flowing fresh water of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate, flattened, brown-mottled body with broad, horizontally spread pectoral and pelvic fins with which it clamps to stones like a sucker in wild current. With its inferior mouth it rasps algal film and biofilm from rocks. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Saddled hillstream loach?
The Saddled hillstream loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Saddled hillstream loach live?
The Saddled hillstream loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand
How big does the Saddled hillstream loach get?
The Saddled hillstream loach grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Saddled hillstream loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Saddled 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.
Is the Saddled hillstream loach edible?
Yes, the Saddled hillstream loach is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Saddled hillstream loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Saddled 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 Homaloptera
More from the family Balitoridae
Want the complete picture on the Saddled hillstream loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Saddled hillstream loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.