Spined Loach Care Guide
Cobitis taenia
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Bioload Score
2000
- Max Size
- 10.0 cm / 4.0"
- Temperature
- 18–22°C (64–72°F)
- pH Range
- 6.0 – 7.5
- Min Tank Size
- 75L (20 gal)
- Min Group Size
- 3 fish
- Tank Level
- Bottom
- Origin
- Southeast Asia
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Breeding Difficulty
- Moderate
Diet
Omnivorous. They eat a variety of foods, including sinking pellets, flakes, small live or frozen foods like bloodworms and daphnia, and algae.
Community Compatibility
Spined Loaches are peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive community fish like danios, tetras, and small rasboras. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or larger species that might harass them.
Good to Know
Spined Loaches are generally hardy, but they are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential for their well-being. They are also skilled burrowers, so provide a substrate that allows them to dig. Additionally, they can be somewhat shy, so provide hiding spots in the tank to make them feel more secure.
Gender Differences
It can be challenging to distinguish between males and females by appearance.
Stock Spined Loach in Your Tank
Use our free stocking calculator to see if Spined Loach fits your aquarium