Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted hillstream loach (Formosania stigmata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Balitoridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The spotted hillstream loach is a hillstream loach (Balitoridae) from fast-flowing fresh water of Taiwan and southeastern China. The species grows to about 8 cm and has an elongate, flattened, brown-speckled body with broad, horizontally spread pectoral and pelvic fins with which it clamps to stones 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 Spotted hillstream loach?
The Spotted hillstream loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Spotted hillstream loach live?
The Spotted hillstream loach lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China
How big does the Spotted hillstream loach get?
The Spotted hillstream loach grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Spotted hillstream loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted 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
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Formosania
More from the family Balitoridae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted hillstream loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted hillstream loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.