Lizard Loach (Homalopteroides smithi)

Fish in the family Balitoridae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameHomalopteroides smithi
FamilyBalitoridae
Also known asSmith's Lizard Loach, Hillstream Loach, Homaloptera smithi
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size2.5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemp 70-77°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10 dGH

Appearance

Small slender lizard-like body with paired pectoral fins held flat and a mottled brown camouflage pattern.

Difficulty and care for the Lizard Loach

Hard

Origin and habitat

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)

Keeper notes

Peaceful but delicate and slow to feed; keep with calm tankmates that won't outcompete it. Eats small invertebrates.

Log Lizard Loach in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Lizard Loach alongside everything else in your reef.