Loach – Green Lizard Loach, Gecko Loach , Aligator Hillstream Loach (Homaloptera tweediei) 3-4cm

The Alligator Hillstream Loach (Homalopteroides tweediei), also known as the Green Lizard Loach (or Catfish), Gecko Loach, is a somewhat uncommon hillstream loach (not catfish) that is native to the Mekong River System in many countries of Southeast Asia. It is known for its variable coloration, its peaceful yet outgoing demeanor, and its fascinating social behavior with members of its own (and similar) species. This peaceful fish is an excellent candidate for the mature subtropical aquarium.

An aquarium with heavy water flow (10-15x turnover per hour) and very clean, clear water is required for the Alligator Hillstream Loach. Unlike many other hillstream loach species, it seems to inhabit areas of moderate, rather than fast, water flow. However, like other hillstream loaches, it is sensitive to declines in water quality, so regular aquarium maintenance and maximum oxygen saturation are absolutely necessary.

The Alligator Hillstream Loach is primarily a micro predator. It is known to usually accept frozen and live meaty foods. This fish will also sometimes accept high-quality dry foods, but often takes a while to adapt to them, so live and frozen foods should be fed for a considerable while as this species settles into its aquarium. As long as it is kept in a well-maintained, mature aquarium with high oxygen content, the Alligator Hillstream Loach is a hardy and entertaining fish. It will not bother aquarium plants. In fact, Anubias species are an excellent plant to keep with this loach because this fish likes to rest on broad, flat leaves.

The Alligator Hillstream Loach is a very social species, so it should be kept in groups of 6 or more. Most small rasboras, tetras, hillstream loaches, and other small, peaceful fish are good tankmates for the Alligator Hillstream Loach, although this species can sometimes bully other hillstream loaches in smaller aquariums. Since they inhabit similar waterways, many smaller freshwater goby species are ideal tankmates as well. Due to its small size and diet, the Alligator Hillstream Loach can possibly be kept with invertebrates that are too large to be considered prey. Other peaceful bottom-dwelling fish are also a possibility, but care must be taken to make sure that the Alligator Hillstream Loach is not out-competed for food.