Beaufortia pingi — a Balitoridae from southern Chinese mountain streams, peaceful; territorial only over a favourite stone. Reaches 5.6–8.1 cm; keep one per stone field, or 3+ to spread territory. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
5.6–8.1 cm
Minimum tank
79 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial only over a favourite stone
Origin
southern Chinese mountain streams
Species overview
Balitoridae species Beaufortia pingi comes from southern Chinese mountain streams. A torrent-lover built to clamp onto stone in fast, cool, highly oxygenated water; warmth is its enemy. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 5.6–8.1 cm. Keep one per stone field, or 3+ to spread territory. Aim for brisk current, high oxygen and real algae growth; a powerhead is not optional here. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.
Native biotope
Habitat
Fast-flowing mountain streams, clinging to rocks
Flow
Very strong, highly oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Requires very high dissolved oxygen
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Bare rock and coarse gravel
Hardscape
Large smooth boulders
Plants
Minimal; algae-covered stones instead
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep one per stone field, or 3+ to spread territory