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Freshwater fishGreen Lizard Loach
Green Lizard Loach
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The green lizard loach is part of the hillstream loach family and goes by several common names, including gecko loach and Tweedie's hillstream loach (after the discoverer). Green lizard loaches come from Indonesia and are wild-caught and not often available for us hobbyists. The freshwater loach is hardy, peaceful and adapts well to most aquariums. However, these are mountain loaches and will not tolerate water temperatures above 80 degrees. These loaches can even be kept in indoor aquariums without heaters.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Homalopteroides tweediei |
| Origin | Malaysia and Indonesia |
| Care Level | Moderate (needs cool, fast, oxygen-rich water) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 3" |
| Lifespan | 5–8 years |
| Diet | Algae eater |
| Water Temperature | 68–75°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 2" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Hillstream loaches come from fast, clear mountain streams. Give them smooth rocks, strong current, lots of oxygen and cool water. They graze on algae, so a mature tank with algae-covered rocks is ideal.
Feeding: Hillstream loaches graze on algae. Also feed algae wafers or sinking pellets.
Tankmates: Hillstream loaches do well with peaceful fish that like cool, flowing water, such as white clouds, danios, rasboras and dwarf shrimp. Avoid tropical fish that need warm water.
Good to know: Hillstream loaches cling to rocks and glass with their flat, sucker-like bodies, just like they do in fast mountain streams.
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