Family: Balitorinae
Distribution: Pseudogastromyzon myersi, better known as Sucker-belly Loach, is a benthopelagic Asian species endemic to Guangdong Province, China; it has also been reported in Hong Kong. This algae-feeding species is distributed in rapid, flowing streams.
PH: 7.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 20°C – 24C (68 – 75F)
Hardness: 8 – 12 dH
Description: Pseudogastromyzon myersi can reach up to 6 cm in length, but is usually measured around 3 cm. Sexually active males have more prominent nasal tubercles than females. This species is often confused with Pseudogastromyzon cheni, due to its uncanny similarities.
Diet: Pseudogastromyzon myersi will eat most foods offered to it. You could try offering it quality flake, sinking pellets, thawed bloodworm, mysis shrimp, spinach, natural algae and kale as part of a varied, healthy diet.
Breeding: This species’ spawning habits are largely unknown, but it has definitely been bred in an aquarium environment. You should put a gravel substrate in your tank and provide the young fry with plenty of foodstuffs. Breeding habits are said to mirror those of Pseudogastromyzon cheni.
Comments: This schooling species will require at least a 55 gallon tank. You should provide plenty of open areas for swimming and attempt to mimic its natural environment: high current, high-oxygen highland streams. Decorate your tank with pebbles, rocky hiding places and reasonable lighting, along with plants such as Anubias and Microsoreum. This species requires strict attention to water conditions and is recommended to experienced hobbyists.
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Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful species will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish make great tank mates.
