hillstream loach compatibility

[misterchrngmoua]

ive got a 20L set up as a hillstream biotope tank. im planning on getting 11 Sewellia lineolata and making it a species tank. i was also thinking that i lower the number of the sewellia to 7 and pick up 3 Homaloptera orthogoniata. the thing is, this would be my very first dive into loach territory and i dont know much about loaches. i do want to try my hands at breeding the sewellia in that tank as well. will the homaloptera prey on the sewellia eggs and/or fry?

[Jim Powers]

I don't think you would have an issue mixing the two species.
That would make a very nice tank.
The problem I see is that you are planning on putting too many fish in that size tank. Sewellia can grow to three inches or so and the orthos can reach 4 inches.

[misterchrngmoua]

well, i just purchased 11 sewellia. they should arrive within a week. i'll hold on the orthos. i'll get them once i set up a larger tank.
will the ortos prey upon the eggs and fry of the sewellia?

[Jim Powers]

I really can't answer the ortho question.
Most hillstreams that have breed in the aquarium bury their eggs. Sewellia scatter eggs so I wouldn't be surprised if just about any fish would eat any eggs it ran accross. The danios and chelas in one of my sewellia tanks just love the eggs. I would think orthos would love them too. But, I have never kept the two species together.
By the way, where are you located that you can find orthos?
I am jealous.
Also, if you are going to keep that many sewellia in that tank, try to provide lots of hiding places such as pieces of slate leaned against the walls of the tank. Sewellia can be a bit territorial and the hiding places will help reduce conflicts.

[misterchrngmoua]

i would be getting the orthos online. from frank.
i've got the tank setup with a bunch of nice boulders. i'll add more rock to add more hiding places and stuff for them. i'll post pics just as soon as i get the sewellia in.

[Mike Ophir]

Was just gonna say Frank has 'em for sale...sounds like a great tank. Keep us updated!

Mike