Vanmanenia serrilineata — a Balitoridae from southern Chinese mountain streams, calm but assertive around its chosen perch. Reaches 7.4–10.8 cm; singly or in a loose group on open rockwork. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
7.4–10.8 cm
Minimum tank
140 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling on rock surfaces
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm but assertive around its chosen perch
Origin
southern Chinese mountain streams
Species overview
From the waters of southern Chinese mountain streams comes Vanmanenia serrilineata, a member of the family Balitoridae. 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 7.4–10.8 cm. Singly or in a loose group on open rockwork. 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. Water quality and diet matter more than décor.
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
Singly or in a loose group on open rockwork
Diet
Grazes rock surfaces; feed spirulina-rich foods
Recommended tankmates
Other cool-water stream fish — Share the need for oxygen and flow
Avoid keeping with
Large aggressive cichlids — Disrupt the calm grazing regime