Purple Fin Loach - (Pseudogastromyzon laticeps)

🐟 Purple Fin Loach – (Pseudogastromyzon laticeps) – Hillstream Loach for Sale

The Purple Fin Loach (Pseudogastromyzon laticeps) is a small, beautifully patterned hillstream loach native to fast-flowing, oxygen-rich streams in China. Known for its suction-cup-like pectoral fins that allow it to cling to rocks in strong currents, this loach is a peaceful bottom-dweller perfect for well-oxygenated river-style aquariums.

Its attractive coloration features olive-brown to golden tones with darker markings and distinctive purplish to reddish fin highlights that stand out under good lighting. The Purple Fin Loach is also valued for its ability to graze on algae and biofilm, helping keep aquariums clean.

🔎 Quick Facts – Purple Fin Loach (Pseudogastromyzon laticeps)

• 📛 Common Names: Purple Fin Loach, Hillstream Loach
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Pseudogastromyzon laticeps
• 🌍 Origin: China
• 🎨 Appearance: Flattened body, olive to golden color with darker bands; fins show purple to red highlights
• 📏 Max Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; mostly wild-caught

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful, community-friendly bottom-dweller
• 🐟 Best kept in groups of 3 or more
• 🪵 Prefers aquariums with high water movement
• 🌿 Grazes constantly on algae and biofilm

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons
• 🌊 Strong water flow and high oxygenation
• 🪵 Smooth rocks for grazing and resting
• 🌿 Live plants that tolerate current
• 💡 Moderate to bright lighting to encourage algae growth

💧 Water Parameters – Purple Fin Loach Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 68–75°F (20–24°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous with Algae Preference

• 🌿 Algae and biofilm from aquarium surfaces
• 🌾 Sinking algae wafers and spirulina-based foods
• 🦐 Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
• 🪱 Microworms and other small live foods

📋 Purple Fin Loach Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Purple Fin Loach is a peaceful and eye-catching algae grazer ideal for river-themed aquariums, combining beauty, utility, and unique behavior in a small, hardy package.