{"product_id":"bloody-mary-borneo-loach-gastromyzon-sp","title":"Bloody Mary Borneo Loach - Gastromyzon sp.","description":"\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"fgwgvs\" data-start=\"524\" data-end=\"584\"\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003eBloody Mary Borneo Loach – \u003cem data-start=\"553\" data-end=\"566\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e sp. “Bloody Mary”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"77mjg\" data-start=\"586\" data-end=\"598\"\u003eOverview:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"599\" data-end=\"1142\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"603\" data-end=\"631\"\u003eBloody Mary Borneo Loach\u003c\/strong\u003e is a specialist hillstream loach with a flattened body, powerful clinging fins and distinctive red markings that make it one of the most eye-catching \u003cem data-start=\"782\" data-end=\"795\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e imports. This unusual \u003cstrong data-start=\"818\" data-end=\"841\"\u003eBorneo sucker loach\u003c\/strong\u003e is not a general algae eater for a warm community aquarium; it is a rheophilic species that needs cool, clean, oxygen-rich water and a mature aquarium with strong flow. In the right river-style setup, it is a fascinating grazer that spends much of its time attached to smooth stones, glass and décor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"18rclky\" data-start=\"1144\" data-end=\"1166\"\u003eKey Identification:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1167\" data-end=\"1482\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1167\" data-end=\"1183\"\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bloody Mary Borneo Loach\u003cbr data-start=\"1208\" data-end=\"1211\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1211\" data-end=\"1227\"\u003eOther Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bloody Mary Hillstream Loach, Red Lamandau Hillstream Loach, Double Red Borneo Loach, Borneo Sucker, Red Borneo Sucker\u003cbr data-start=\"1346\" data-end=\"1349\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1349\" data-end=\"1369\"\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"1370\" data-end=\"1383\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e sp. “Bloody Mary”\u003cbr data-start=\"1401\" data-end=\"1404\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1404\" data-end=\"1418\"\u003eFish Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hillstream Loach \/ Borneo Sucker\u003cbr data-start=\"1451\" data-end=\"1454\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1454\" data-end=\"1469\"\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"13oemwk\" data-start=\"1484\" data-end=\"1511\"\u003eNatural Range \u0026amp; Habitat:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1512\" data-end=\"2063\"\u003eThe Bloody Mary Borneo Loach is a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1546\" data-end=\"1575\"\u003eBorneo hillstream species\u003c\/strong\u003e currently traded under a provisional name. Trade references link it with fast-flowing, well-oxygenated streams of Borneo, and the name \u003cstrong data-start=\"1711\" data-end=\"1727\"\u003eRed Lamandau\u003c\/strong\u003e suggests a Lamandau-area locality or trade association. Aqua Imports describes it as a smaller-growing hillstream loach from fast-moving, well-oxygenated Bornean streams, while Seriously Fish notes that \u003cem data-start=\"1931\" data-end=\"1944\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e species are specialised inhabitants of swift, shallow, oxygen-saturated streams. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2065\" data-end=\"2313\"\u003eIn nature, these fish live among rocks, pebbles and submerged surfaces coated with algae, biofilm and aufwuchs. Aquarium care should focus on replicating this clean, fast-water environment rather than treating them as ordinary tropical bottom fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1k4fj4a\" data-start=\"2315\" data-end=\"2342\"\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Adult Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2343\" data-end=\"2844\"\u003eThis loach has the flattened, streamlined shape typical of \u003cem data-start=\"2402\" data-end=\"2415\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e, with broad paired fins that act like suction pads in strong current. The body is usually dark brown to blackish with lighter spotting or mottling, while the “Bloody Mary” feature is the red to blood-red marking around the dorsal base and upper tail section. Aquarium Glaser specifically describes the red markings at the base of the dorsal fin and on the upper side of the caudal peduncle. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2846\" data-end=\"3026\"\u003eAdults are relatively small, usually around \u003cstrong data-start=\"2890\" data-end=\"2902\"\u003e5–6.5 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e, making them compact but still specialist fish. Their small size does not mean they are suitable for small, low-flow tanks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"zee6g1\" data-start=\"3028\" data-end=\"3052\"\u003eAquarium Suitability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3053\" data-end=\"3472\"\u003eThis species is best for a dedicated \u003cstrong data-start=\"3090\" data-end=\"3153\"\u003ehillstream, river-style or high-oxygen subtropical aquarium\u003c\/strong\u003e. Provide smooth rounded stones, cobbles, wood, open grazing surfaces and strong water movement. Bright lighting can be useful for encouraging algae and biofilm growth, provided shaded retreats are also available. A mature tank is strongly recommended because these loaches rely heavily on established grazing surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3474\" data-end=\"3797\"\u003eThey are not suitable for standard warm community aquariums, low-oxygen setups, soft muddy substrates or tanks without flow. Practical Fishkeeping notes that hillstream and brook loaches require cooler water, very high flow and high oxygenation rather than normal community conditions. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1jzuw08\" data-start=\"3799\" data-end=\"3828\"\u003eRecommended Aquarium Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3829\" data-end=\"4095\"\u003eA practical minimum is \u003cstrong data-start=\"3852\" data-end=\"3886\"\u003e75–90 litres for a small group\u003c\/strong\u003e, with \u003cstrong data-start=\"3893\" data-end=\"3915\"\u003e120 litres or more\u003c\/strong\u003e preferred for better flow, oxygen stability and grazing space. A longer aquarium is more useful than a tall one, as these fish live on surfaces and benefit from a broad footprint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"pl4gsq\" data-start=\"4097\" data-end=\"4117\"\u003eWater Conditions:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4118\" data-end=\"4704\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4118\" data-end=\"4134\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20–24°C\u003cbr data-start=\"4142\" data-end=\"4145\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4145\" data-end=\"4152\"\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6.5–7.5\u003cbr data-start=\"4160\" data-end=\"4163\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4163\" data-end=\"4176\"\u003eHardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft to moderately hard; avoid unstable extremes\u003cbr data-start=\"4225\" data-end=\"4228\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4228\" data-end=\"4249\"\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e High oxygen levels, strong filtration and moderate to fast flow are essential. Seriously Fish recommends \u003cstrong data-start=\"4355\" data-end=\"4366\"\u003e20–24°C\u003c\/strong\u003e for general care of similar undescribed \u003cem data-start=\"4407\" data-end=\"4420\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e forms, while Aqua Imports notes that Bloody Mary Hillstream Loaches prefer slightly cooler water with clean, well-aerated conditions and moderate to fast flow. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Avoid consistently high tropical temperatures, stagnant areas and poor water quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"3rlnm7\" data-start=\"4706\" data-end=\"4734\"\u003eTemperament \u0026amp; Tank Mates:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"4774\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"4757\"\u003eAquarium Category:\u003c\/strong\u003e Community Fish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4776\" data-end=\"5137\"\u003eBloody Mary Borneo Loaches are peaceful, but they are specialised fish and should be kept with species that enjoy similar cool, oxygen-rich water. Suitable tank mates include White Cloud Mountain Minnows, small danios, hillstream loaches, Rhinogobius-type gobies, small peaceful barbs and other active stream fish that will not outcompete them too aggressively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5139\" data-end=\"5474\"\u003eAvoid large predators, aggressive cichlids, warm-water community fish, slow delicate species and boisterous bottom-feeders that may block grazing areas. They are best kept in a group of \u003cstrong data-start=\"5325\" data-end=\"5339\"\u003eat least 5\u003c\/strong\u003e, where space allows. Aqua Imports also recommends groups of at least five for this social loach. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ah6yd9\" data-start=\"5476\" data-end=\"5487\"\u003eFeeding:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5488\" data-end=\"6034\"\u003eThis species is a specialised grazer and opportunistic feeder. It should have access to mature algae, biofilm and aufwuchs on stones, wood and glass. Supplement with algae wafers, spirulina foods, Repashy-style gel foods, fine sinking pellets, blanched vegetables and occasional frozen foods such as daphnia, cyclops, brineshrimp or bloodworm. Aqua Imports recommends a varied diet high in algae or vegetable content, while Aquatic Arts lists algae, sinking pellets and blanched vegetables as suitable foods. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6036\" data-end=\"6185\"\u003eDo not add to a sterile new aquarium with no grazing surfaces, as newly imported hillstream loaches may be reluctant to take prepared foods at first.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"2vr35r\" data-start=\"6187\" data-end=\"6216\"\u003eBehaviour in the Aquarium:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6217\" data-end=\"6612\"\u003eBloody Mary Borneo Loaches spend much of their time attached to rocks, glass, filter outlets or wood, grazing and repositioning themselves in the current. They may spar gently over favoured stones, but this is usually display behaviour rather than serious aggression. Their body shape allows them to cling tightly in strong flow, and they often choose the most oxygen-rich parts of the aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"gyou4p\" data-start=\"6614\" data-end=\"6628\"\u003eCare Notes:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6629\" data-end=\"7118\"\u003eThis is a specialist loach for mature, high-oxygen aquariums. Strong flow, clean water and stable cooler temperatures are essential. Use smooth stones and avoid sharp décor that could damage the underside. Encourage natural biofilm growth before purchase, and make sure prepared foods reach the fish rather than being swept away or stolen by faster tank mates. Do not keep in hot, low-flow tropical tanks. A secure lid is recommended, as loaches can climb glass and explore filter outlets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"iot6fl\" data-start=\"7120\" data-end=\"7139\"\u003eRecommended For:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"7140\" data-end=\"7167\"\u003eIntermediate to experienced\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1c7763y\" data-start=\"7169\" data-end=\"7185\"\u003eAvailability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"7186\" data-end=\"7221\"\u003eRare \/ Seasonal \/ Specialist import\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1x39ni3\" data-start=\"7223\" data-end=\"7243\"\u003eImage Disclaimer:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"7244\" data-end=\"7439\"\u003eAll images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Natural variation in size, colour, pattern and markings can occur between individual fish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Warehouse Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":43667920257098,"sku":"AG-102674","price":12.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":43667920289866,"sku":"AG-102675","price":14.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":43667920322634,"sku":"AG-102676","price":16.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"X-Large","offer_id":43667920355402,"sku":"AG-102677","price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0623\/1877\/2298\/files\/Bloody_Mary_Borneo_Loach_-_Gastromyzon_sp._2.jpg?v=1780596071","url":"https:\/\/warehouse-aquatics.co.uk\/products\/bloody-mary-borneo-loach-gastromyzon-sp","provider":"Warehouse Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}