Borneo Sucker Myersi Ocellatus (Sucker Belly Loach)

Borneo Sucker (Myersi Ocellatus) Care Guide

Also known as the Sucker Belly Loach

The Borneo Sucker is a fascinating bottom-dwelling fish with a unique flat, disc-like body perfectly adapted for clinging to rocks in fast-flowing streams. These peaceful algae grazers are excellent for planted aquariums with good water movement and oxygenation.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 60 litres

• Temperature: 20–25°C

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• GH: 4–10

• KH: 2–6

• TDS: 100–200 ppm

They thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water with a strong current. Use a powerhead, wavemaker, or spray bar to create good flow, and ensure plenty of surface agitation for oxygen exchange.

Habitat Setup

Recreate their natural mountain stream habitat with:

• Smooth rocks and pebbles for grazing

• Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate

• Driftwood and hardscape for hiding spots

• Live plants such as Anubias, Java Fern, and mosses that tolerate flow

Keep the tank shaded with moderate lighting to promote natural algae growth, which they love to graze on.

️ Feeding

Borneo Suckers primarily feed on biofilm and algae, but in the aquarium, they’ll also accept:

• Algae wafers

• Spirulina-based sinking pellets

• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)

• Occasional frozen foods like bloodworms or daphnia

Feed small portions and allow natural algae to grow — it’s their favorite!

Tank Mates

They are peaceful and shy, best kept with gentle, small species that enjoy similar cool, fast-moving water conditions.

Ideal companions:
White Cloud Mountain Minnows, Zebra Danios, Hillstream Loaches, or small peaceful shrimp like Amanos.

Avoid aggressive or territorial bottom dwellers.

Breeding

Breeding in home aquariums is very rare, as they require specific water flow and seasonal cues to spawn. Most individuals found in the hobby are captive-bred but not often bred in standard tanks.

Interesting Fact

The Borneo Sucker’s unique body acts like a natural suction cup, allowing it to cling firmly to rocks even in powerful currents — a perfect design for life in fast mountain streams!

Reference: Bubbly Fish – Creating underwater wonders