Glyptothorax pallozonus — a Sisoridae from SE Asian mountain streams, peaceful; most activity happens after dark. Reaches 4.5–6.6 cm; keep bottom stock light — they share one floor. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
4.5–6.6 cm
Minimum tank
52 L
Water layer
Bottom of fast water
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; most activity happens after dark
Origin
SE Asian mountain streams
Species overview
Glyptothorax pallozonus, a member of the family Sisoridae, is native to SE Asian mountain streams. Its barbels read the sand like fingers; coarse gravel slowly wears them down. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 4.5–6.6 cm. Keep bottom stock light — they share one floor. Provide soft substrate, hiding tubes, and food that reaches the bottom before tankmates finish it. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Water quality and diet matter more than décor.
Native biotope
Habitat
Mountain torrents clinging to boulders
Flow
Very strong current, highly oxygenated
Dissolved O₂
Requires very high dissolved oxygen
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Bare smooth rock
Hardscape
Large boulders forming crevices
Plants
Minimal
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep bottom stock light — they share one floor
Diet
Omnivorous scavenger — sinking pellets, frozen and vegetable foods
Recommended tankmates
Other similar-sized bottom fish — Share the floor peaceably