Description

Borneo Sucker (Gastromyzon spp.)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Gastromyzon spp.

• Family: Balitoridae

• Origin: Borneo & Southeast Asia (fast-flowing rivers/streams)

• Size: 2 – 3 inches (5 – 7.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5 – 7 years

• Tank Zone: Bottom dwellers

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 80 – 200 ppm

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5

• Temperature: 20 – 25°C (68 – 77°F)

• Hardness: 4 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Unique “sucker-like” body adapted to cling onto rocks in strong currents.

• Peaceful and shy, best in well-oxygenated, cool tanks.

• Excellent algae and biofilm grazers.

• Need fast-flowing water to stay healthy and active.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Herbivorous grazer.

• Diet: Algae, biofilm, spirulina flakes, algae wafers, blanched spinach/zucchini, occasional frozen micro foods (daphnia, brine shrimp).

• Feeding: Small amounts, twice daily.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (larger preferred with strong flow).

• Filtration: High oxygenation, strong filter or powerhead for water flow.

• Decor: Smooth rocks, driftwood, sandy bottom, live plants.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: At least 3–5 (they thrive in groups).

• Tank Mates: Small peaceful fish – Danios, White Cloud Minnows, Rasboras, Corydoras, Shrimp.

• Avoid: Large/aggressive fish or slow warm-water species (not suitable with Bettas, Gouramis, or large Cichlids).

✅ Do’s

• Provide strong current and oxygen-rich water.

• Keep them in groups for natural behavior.

• Offer plenty of algae and biofilm surfaces.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep in still water aquariums.

• Don’t house them with aggressive or big fish.

• Don’t expose to high temperatures for long periods.

⭐ Quick Tips

• Amazing algae eaters for cooler, high-flow aquariums.

• Best for aquarists who can provide a river-style tank setup.

• Hardy if kept in the right environment – otherwise sensitive