My LFS just got Chinese Hillstream Loaches, 2" for $2.4

[fusQer]

I know nothing about keeping hillstreams, but I know they are rare and thus I want them. I have a 55g planted tank, co2 injection, 220 watts of light, ph 7.0, Rena Filstar xp3 filter (rated for 175g tanks). My spraybar produces pretty strong current, is that good enough? Or is this something that has to have their own special tank, with only them in it? WhAT TO DO! I know these fish will all be gone by tomorrow. (They are closed Tuesday to update stock, and they post it online: http://fintique.home.texas.net/fintique%20update.htm
Tell me those aren't the cheapest prices ever!

Last time they had Sidthimunki Loaches for 9.98, they were all gone by 2pm the following day. SO- should I go get these or what!?

[Emma Turner]

Probably not unless you have a river-type tank set up specifically for them which is ready to go, but the other hillstream keepers here might advise differently. They like a really high oxygen content in the tank with loads of flow, something which your plants would not enjoy too much.

Also I would seriously think twice about buying anything from a store that sells dyed fish and unsuitable tankbusters like Pangassius!

Emma

[fusQer]

is a pangasius that huge shark? all of the LFS here sell those dyed parrots. ive seen kids go bonkers over them. in the end they are a business and they have to make money. this store has the best prices and has been in bidness for 35 years. they must be doing something right.

[Martin Thoene]

NOPE! I've had a Rena XP3 on a 55 and it's not enough current for hillstreams. They are most probably Beaufortia kweichowensis

These need lower than regular "Tropical" temperatures, i.e. below 75F. LOTS of current and lots of rockwork to shuffle across and graze on. Plants are not part of their natural environment, so your planted tank is far from ideal. Also, other inhabitants have a bearing, but ultimately it's the fish's high oxygen requirements that MUST be met.

Read here: http://www.loaches.com/hillstream_intro.html , then you'll know.

Martin.

[fusQer]

thank you much! looks like im gonna get a 29g long (3 feet) with a powerhead and rocks to form a slope. this is all because i read that these guys are rare. sigh the addiction is killing me

[Martin Thoene]

fusQer, read my articles. Don't rush in headfirst. The tank also needs to be cycled and needs filtration.

If these fish are Beaufortia, they're not exactly rare. That price is excellent. Kept in the correct conditions they're not hard to keep. I have 3 that I've had since early '99. They even flew with me from England!

Set up a dedicated tank and they'll give you lots of pleasure.

Martin.

[fusQer]

on second thaught, im abandoning the idea, too much $ and effort required oh well. if anyone wants cheap hillstream loaches, come to san antonio!

[fusQer]

yah i saw the diagram of 2 power heads, 3 sponges, plus all the pipes connecting them, i thaught just one powerhead and a filter would be sufficient (i already have both pieces) and wouldn't have to spend more money. I figure if i can't give these fish the best, then i probably shouldnt force them to live subpar. hopefully whoever takes them will treat them well!