The Bloody Mary Hillstream Loach: A Bold and Rare Gem

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The Bloody Mary Hillstream Loach (Gastromyzon sp. Bloody Mary) AKA “Double Red Tail Borneo Loach” is a captivating wild-collected species with a unique appearance, characterized by distinctive blood-red markings. Although its nickname may conjure images of Queen Mary I, who earned the title “Bloody Mary” for her infamous reign in the mid-16th century, this peaceful loach is far from fearsome. Its name instead refers to the striking red coloration at the base of the dorsal fin and on the upper side of the caudal peduncle, making it a visually fascinating addition to any freshwater aquarium.

This loach is not entirely red but features these beautiful highlights on a more subdued body color, creating a subtle contrast that stands out in a well-planned aquascape.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Unique Red Markings: Beautiful blood-red accents at the base of the dorsal fin and on the caudal peduncle.
• Wild-Collected: A rare and exotic species, collected from its natural habitat.
• Peaceful and Hardy: Well-suited for community tanks with other non-aggressive species.
• Algae Grazer: Helps maintain the balance of your tank by naturally grazing on algae.

Natural Habitat and Aquascaping:

Bloody Mary Hillstream Loaches are found in fast-flowing rivers and streams with high oxygen levels. To replicate these conditions, ensure your tank has strong water movement and good aeration. These loaches prefer smooth rocks, driftwood, and shaded areas where they can hide and graze. Plants such as Anubias and Java Fern, along with flat stones or surfaces, provide them with the ideal environment for their bottom-dwelling behavior.

Diet and Feeding:

As an omnivore with a natural affinity for algae, the Bloody Mary Hillstream Loach will happily graze on the algae in your tank. Supplement their diet with sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables (such as zucchini or spinach), and the occasional treat of frozen or live foods like daphnia and bloodworms. A varied diet will ensure they stay healthy and maintain their beautiful coloration.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

The Bloody Mary Hillstream Loach is peaceful and does well with other non-aggressive species. They are best kept in groups of 3 or more to encourage natural behavior. Suitable tank mates include rasboras, tetras, and other small, peaceful fish. Avoid pairing them with larger or aggressive fish that may stress or harm them.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 68 – 75 F (20 – 24 C)
• pH: 6.5 – 7.5 (prefers slightly acidic to neutral water)
• KH: 4 – 12 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet of algae, sinking pellets, and blanched vegetables.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful; keep in groups of 3 or more.
• Origin: Wild-collected, offering a rare glimpse of their natural beauty.
• Average Adult Size: 2 – 2.5 inches (5 – 6.3 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1 – 1.5 inches (2.5 – 3.8 cm)

Add the Rare and Striking Bloody Mary Hillstream Loach to Your Aquarium Today!

With its unique red markings, peaceful demeanor, and algae-grazing habits, the Bloody Mary Hillstream Loach is a perfect addition for aquarists seeking a rare and natural beauty in their tank. Its intriguing anatomical features and wild origins make it an exotic and valuable choice for freshwater setups.

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