Ornate Borneo Sucker

Gastromyzon ornaticauda

Medium
📏
Max Size
7cm (2.8″)
🏠
Min Tank Size
76L
⚗️
pH Range
6.5 - 7.5
🌡️
Temperature
22-26°C
(72-78°F)
🐟
Temperament
Peaceful

Care Requirements

💧 Water Parameters

pH Level
6.5 - 7.5
Temperature
22-26°C (72-78°F)

🏠 Tank Setup

Minimum Tank Size
76 Litres (20.1 US Gallons)
Minimum Shoal Size
6+ fish
Temperament
Peaceful

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Primarily grazes on biofilm and algae growing on rocks and other surfaces, and in aquaria should be offered algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and small sinking foods.

🐟 Community Compatibility

Best kept with small, peaceful, fast-water species that tolerate cooler, well-oxygenated conditions, such as danios, white cloud minnows, and other non-aggressive hillstream loaches.

⚥ Sexual Dimorphism

No easily discernible differences between genders.

🌍 Origin

Southeast Asia

About Ornate Borneo Sucker

The Ornate Borneo Sucker, scientifically known as Gastromyzon ornaticauda, is a striking freshwater hillstream loach native to the fast-flowing rivers and streams of Borneo. Its intricate patterns, flattened body, and peaceful temperament make it a standout species for aquarists interested in riverine setups that highlight the beauty and diversity of flowing-water habitats. Gastromyzon ornaticauda has a flattened, elongated body designed to cling to rocks and navigate strong currents. Its coloration is a complex mix of earthy browns, creams, and dark bands, often accented with subtle spots or intricate markings that give it a beautifully ornate appearance. The fins are broad and muscular, providing stability against water flow, and may display faint hints of iridescence, adding a delicate shimmer when the fish moves across rocks or glides through currents. In the aquarium, the Ornate Borneo Sucker thrives in setups that replicate its native streams. Smooth stones, pebbles, and fine gravel provide surfaces for grazing, while moderate to strong water flow and high oxygenation mimic natural conditions. Driftwood, leaf litter, and hardy plants such as Anubias or Java fern can be added to create shaded resting areas, though ample open rock surfaces are essential for movement and foraging. This species is peaceful and social, preferring small groups where natural interactions can occur. Keeping them together encourages grazing, resting, and subtle social behaviors, making them more active and confident. They coexist well with other calm, current-loving species such as danios, rasboras, and other hillstream loaches. Feeding should focus on their natural diet of algae and biofilm, supplemented with sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach, and occasional protein-rich foods such as frozen daphnia or bloodworms. A varied diet ensures they maintain vibrant patterns and remain active in the aquarium. Breeding Gastromyzon ornaticauda in captivity is rare and not widely documented. Like many hillstream loaches, reproduction likely requires specific water flow, substrate, and seasonal cues, making it a challenge for most aquarists. The Ornate Borneo Sucker is an exceptional addition to flowing-water aquariums. Its intricate coloration, peaceful nature, and specialized adaptations for life in strong currents make it both fascinating to observe and rewarding to keep in a carefully designed river-style setup.

Ready to Add Ornate Borneo Sucker to Your Tank?

Use our free stocking calculator to see if Ornate Borneo Sucker fits your aquarium setup!

Try the Stocking Calculator

Keep Your Ornate Borneo Sucker Happy with Fishi

Track your aquarium's health and ensure your Ornate Borneo Sucker are thriving with the Fishi mobile app!

  • ✓ Monitor water parameters for optimal Ornate Borneo Sucker health
  • ✓ Get reminders for water changes and maintenance
  • ✓ Track feeding schedules
  • ✓ Log tank observations and fish behavior
  • ✓ Manage multiple tanks effortlessly
Download on App StoreGet it on Google Play

Loved by over 100,000 fishkeepers

Fishi mobile app showing aquarium management dashboard