{"product_id":"green-laser-loach-gastromyzon-lepidogaster","title":"Green Laser Loach - Gastromyzon lepidogaster","description":"\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"1sgnchc\" data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"501\"\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003eGreen Laser Loach – \u003cem data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"501\"\u003eGastromyzon lepidogaster\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"77mjg\" data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"515\"\u003eOverview:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"516\" data-end=\"1033\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"520\" data-end=\"541\"\u003eGreen Laser Loach\u003c\/strong\u003e is a specialist Borneo hillstream loach with a flattened body, powerful clinging fins and a striking green to metallic sheen in mature fish. Also sold as the \u003cstrong data-start=\"700\" data-end=\"723\"\u003eGreen Borneo Sucker\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong data-start=\"727\" data-end=\"749\"\u003eNeon Borneo Sucker\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-start=\"751\" data-end=\"779\"\u003eGastromyzon lepidogaster\u003c\/strong\u003e is a fascinating algae and biofilm grazer for a mature river-style aquarium. It is peaceful, unusual and full of character, but it should not be treated as a general community algae eater; it needs cool, clean, fast-flowing, oxygen-rich water to thrive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"18rclky\" data-start=\"1035\" data-end=\"1057\"\u003eKey Identification:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1058\" data-end=\"1358\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1058\" data-end=\"1074\"\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Green Laser Loach\u003cbr data-start=\"1092\" data-end=\"1095\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1095\" data-end=\"1111\"\u003eOther Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Green Borneo Sucker, Neon Borneo Sucker, Green Borneo Hillstream Loach, Borneo Sucker, Green Laser Hillstream Loach\u003cbr data-start=\"1227\" data-end=\"1230\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1230\" data-end=\"1250\"\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"1251\" data-end=\"1277\"\u003eGastromyzon lepidogaster\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1277\" data-end=\"1280\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1280\" data-end=\"1294\"\u003eFish Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hillstream Loach \/ Borneo Sucker\u003cbr data-start=\"1327\" data-end=\"1330\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1345\"\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"13oemwk\" data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1387\"\u003eNatural Range \u0026amp; Habitat:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1388\" data-end=\"1646\"\u003eThe Green Laser Loach is native to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1423\" data-end=\"1442\"\u003enorthern Borneo\u003c\/strong\u003e, where FishBase records it from the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1479\" data-end=\"1507\"\u003eTemburong River drainage\u003c\/strong\u003e. It is a freshwater hillstream species adapted to fast-flowing, shallow, highly oxygenated waters. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1648\" data-end=\"1940\"\u003eIn nature, \u003cem data-start=\"1659\" data-end=\"1672\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e species live on rocks, pebbles and submerged surfaces in riffles and stream channels, grazing on algae, biofilm and tiny organisms. In the aquarium, this habitat should be recreated with strong flow, smooth stones, mature grazing surfaces and excellent water quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1k4fj4a\" data-start=\"1942\" data-end=\"1969\"\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Adult Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1970\" data-end=\"2466\"\u003eGreen Laser Loaches have a low, flattened body designed for life in current, with broad paired fins that help them grip rocks and glass. Colour can vary with age, mood, locality and condition, but mature fish may show dark base colour with reflective green, bronze or neon-like highlights. Some references note that \u003cem data-start=\"2286\" data-end=\"2312\"\u003eGastromyzon lepidogaster\u003c\/em\u003e can change colour as it matures, with larger adults becoming bright green, orange or otherwise highly reflective. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2468\" data-end=\"2614\"\u003eAdults can reach around \u003cstrong data-start=\"2492\" data-end=\"2503\"\u003e8–10 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e, with FishBase listing a maximum of just over \u003cstrong data-start=\"2550\" data-end=\"2575\"\u003e10 cm standard length\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"zee6g1\" data-start=\"2616\" data-end=\"2640\"\u003eAquarium Suitability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2641\" data-end=\"2958\"\u003eThis species is best for a dedicated \u003cstrong data-start=\"2678\" data-end=\"2739\"\u003ehillstream, river-style or high-flow subtropical aquarium\u003c\/strong\u003e. It needs mature biofilm, rounded stones, cobbles, smooth wood, strong filtration and high oxygenation. Bright lighting can be useful to encourage natural algae growth, but shaded resting spots should also be included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2960\" data-end=\"3276\"\u003eIt is not suitable for warm, stagnant tropical tanks, newly set-up aquariums, soft muddy substrates or communities with large aggressive fish. Practical Fishkeeping notes that \u003cem data-start=\"3136\" data-end=\"3149\"\u003eGastromyzon\u003c\/em\u003e loaches are best kept in cooler, well-oxygenated water rather than overheated aquariums. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1jzuw08\" data-start=\"3278\" data-end=\"3307\"\u003eRecommended Aquarium Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3308\" data-end=\"3566\"\u003eA practical minimum is \u003cstrong data-start=\"3331\" data-end=\"3362\"\u003e90 litres for a small group\u003c\/strong\u003e, with \u003cstrong data-start=\"3369\" data-end=\"3391\"\u003e120 litres or more\u003c\/strong\u003e preferred for better flow, oxygen stability and grazing space. A longer aquarium is better 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=\"3568\" data-end=\"3588\"\u003eWater Conditions:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3589\" data-end=\"4074\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3589\" data-end=\"3605\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20–24°C\u003cbr data-start=\"3613\" data-end=\"3616\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3616\" data-end=\"3623\"\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6.5–7.5\u003cbr data-start=\"3631\" data-end=\"3634\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3634\" data-end=\"3647\"\u003eHardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft to moderately hard; avoid unstable extremes\u003cbr data-start=\"3696\" data-end=\"3699\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3699\" data-end=\"3720\"\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean, highly oxygenated water is essential. Provide strong surface movement, a mature filter and additional flow from a powerhead or river manifold where appropriate. Seriously Fish recommends \u003cstrong data-start=\"3915\" data-end=\"3926\"\u003e18–24°C\u003c\/strong\u003e for general care of \u003cem data-start=\"3947\" data-end=\"3973\"\u003eGastromyzon lepidogaster\u003c\/em\u003e and stresses that the water must be clean and well oxygenated. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"3rlnm7\" data-start=\"4076\" data-end=\"4104\"\u003eTemperament \u0026amp; Tank Mates:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4105\" data-end=\"4144\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4105\" data-end=\"4127\"\u003eAquarium Category:\u003c\/strong\u003e Community Fish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4146\" data-end=\"4462\"\u003eGreen Laser Loaches are peaceful, but they are specialist stream 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 species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4464\" data-end=\"4747\"\u003eAvoid aggressive cichlids, large predators, warm-water community fish, slow delicate fish and boisterous bottom-dwellers that may block grazing areas. Keep in a group of \u003cstrong data-start=\"4634\" data-end=\"4648\"\u003eat least 5\u003c\/strong\u003e where space allows. Groups are more confident and show more natural interactions than single fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ah6yd9\" data-start=\"4749\" data-end=\"4760\"\u003eFeeding:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4761\" data-end=\"5115\"\u003eThis species is a grazing omnivore with a strong need for algae, biofilm and aufwuchs. A mature aquarium with algae-coated stones is extremely beneficial. Supplement with algae wafers, spirulina foods, Repashy-style gel foods, fine sinking pellets, blanched vegetables and occasional small frozen foods such as daphnia, cyclops, brineshrimp or bloodworm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5117\" data-end=\"5421\"\u003eAquadiction notes that \u003cem data-start=\"5140\" data-end=\"5157\"\u003eG. lepidogaster\u003c\/em\u003e feeds naturally on benthic algae and microorganisms, and recommends algae-covered surfaces supported with dried, live, frozen and vegetable-based foods. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Do not add this fish to a sterile new aquarium with no grazing surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"2vr35r\" data-start=\"5423\" data-end=\"5452\"\u003eBehaviour in the Aquarium:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5453\" data-end=\"5862\"\u003eGreen Laser Loaches spend much of their time attached to stones, glass, wood or filter outlets, grazing and repositioning themselves in the current. They may gently spar over favoured rocks, but this is usually display behaviour rather than serious aggression. Their flattened body and suction-like fins allow them to cling tightly in strong flow, and they often choose the most oxygen-rich areas of the tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"gyou4p\" data-start=\"5864\" data-end=\"5878\"\u003eCare Notes:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5879\" data-end=\"6266\"\u003eThis is a specialist hillstream loach for mature, high-oxygen aquariums. Strong flow, clean water and cooler temperatures are essential. Avoid hot tropical conditions, poor filtration and dirty substrates. Use smooth stones rather than sharp décor, and encourage algae growth before purchase. A secure lid is recommended, as hillstream loaches can climb glass and explore filter outlets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"iot6fl\" data-start=\"6268\" data-end=\"6287\"\u003eRecommended For:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6288\" data-end=\"6315\"\u003eIntermediate to experienced\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1c7763y\" data-start=\"6317\" data-end=\"6333\"\u003eAvailability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6334\" data-end=\"6382\"\u003eRare \/ Occasional \/ Specialist hillstream import\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1x39ni3\" data-start=\"6384\" data-end=\"6404\"\u003eImage Disclaimer:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6405\" data-end=\"6600\"\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":43679285346378,"sku":"AG-102750","price":29.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":43679285379146,"sku":"AG-102751","price":34.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":43679285411914,"sku":"AG-102752","price":36.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"X-Large","offer_id":43679285444682,"sku":"AG-102753","price":39.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0623\/1877\/2298\/files\/GreenLaserLoach-TopDownGastromyzonlepidogaster.jpg?v=1780911819","url":"https:\/\/warehouse-aquatics.co.uk\/products\/green-laser-loach-gastromyzon-lepidogaster","provider":"Warehouse Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}