Fin's Fish Guide
The Hillstream loach (Formosania davidi) is a freshwater fish of the family Balitoridae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
David's hillstream loach is a hillstream loach (Gastromyzontidae) from East Asia. The species has an elongate, flattened body with broad, horizontally spread pectoral and pelvic fins that together form a sucker, with which it clings to stones in strong current. It inhabits fast-flowing, clear mountain streams with a rocky bottom. With its inferior mouth it rasps algae, diatoms and growth from the surface of stones. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hillstream loach?
The Hillstream loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Broad pectoral and pelvic fins form a sucker for attaching to stones in rapids.
Where does the Hillstream loach live?
The Hillstream loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Asia; fast-flowing clear mountain streams.
How big does the Hillstream loach get?
The Hillstream loach grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Hillstream loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Hillstream loach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hillstream loach edible?
The Hillstream loach is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Hillstream loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hillstream loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone