Freshwater Loaches
Beguiling bottom feeders - Bring unique personality to your community tank with our range of Loaches.
Loaches are an exceptionally varied group of freshwater fish. Body shapes range from typical streamlined forms to long, eel-like species. Their downward-angled mouths are ideal for sifting through substrate in search of food.
Loaches are popular among aquarists seeking active, characterful bottom-dwellers. Many species are also helpful for managing unwanted snail populations. They are generally excellent for community aquariums, though larger species such as the Clown Loach may reach up to 25 cm and require an appropriately sized freshwater aquarium.
Loach Care
Loaches are hardy and able to tolerate a range of water conditions, but they do require a well-established aquarium with very stable parameters. They are sensitive to ammonia and nitrate spikes, so cycling must be thorough. Most species are social, low-maintenance, and long-lived, often developing strong individual personalities. Popular options include the energetic Clown Loach, the shy and slender Kuhli Loach, and the more confident Pakistani Reticulate Loach (Yo-yo Loach).
Loaches Natural Habitat
Most Loach species originate from central and southern Asia, though a few are found in Europe and Africa. In the wild they often prefer slightly faster-moving waters, yet many adapt well to gentle flow in aquariums.
Loaches Behaviour & Compatibility
Loach behaviour varies widely. All are bottom-dwelling and most thrive in groups. Clown Loaches are active, confident, and known for playful behaviour, interacting both with tank mates and their keepers. They are peaceful and should not be housed with aggressive species. Kuhli Loaches are far more timid and spend much of their time hiding unless kept with equally calm fish such as Tetras, Rasboras and Corydoras. Pakistani Reticulate Loaches can be semi-aggressive at times but are also more capable of holding their ground. They should be kept in groups of at least four to reduce internal conflict. Although Loaches readily control snail numbers, they are unsuitable for aquariums where snails are intentionally kept.
Loaches Fish Tank Set-up Tips
-
Tank
Tank size requirements vary greatly between species. While young Clown Loaches remain small for some time, they can eventually grow close to 30 cm and live for decades. A single adult requires at least 280 litres (75 gallons), and a group of five needs around 560 litres (150 gallons). Smaller species such as Dwarf Loaches grow only to about 6 cm (2.5”). The table below focuses on mid-sized species such as the Yo-yo Loach. Long aquariums are always preferable to tall ones.
| Recommended Max Fish Count |
Tank Volume |
| 4 Loaches |
94 litres (25 gallons) |
| 6 Loaches |
113 litres (30 gallons) |
| 8 Loaches |
132 litres (35 gallons) |
| 10 Loaches |
150 litres (40 gallons) |
-
Base
Loaches prefer soft sand or fine gravel substrate that allows them to forage without injuring their mouths.
-
Foliage
Hardy plants such as Anubias are recommended for Clown Loaches, which sometimes uproot or damage softer plants. Floating plants benefit Kuhli Loaches by providing overhead cover and encouraging natural feeding behaviour. All Kuhlis require hiding spots such as caves and overhangs. Driftwood is ideal for sheltering Clown Loaches in groups. For Pakistani Reticulate Loaches, ensure any decorations have openings wide enough to prevent them from becoming stuck.
-
Water
Most Loaches come from subtropical regions and prefer temperatures of around 15-25°C (59-78°F). Depending on your climate, a water heater may be required to maintain this range.
A pH of 6–8 and hardness of 5-15 dGH suit them well. Use a testing kit to monitor stability. Moderate flow is ideal, with aeration from a fish tank air pump.
Regular water changes (10% weekly or 25% fortnightly) help maintain good conditions. Clean the substrate as needed and treat tap water appropriately using water conditioners before adding it to the aquarium.
Feeding and Care
Loaches feed on leftover food, algae, and naturally occurring micro-organisms, but they also require a balanced diet of plant and animal matter. They prefer sinking foods and enjoy frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia. Offering occasional cucumber slices provides valuable plant nutrition. Browse our selection of fish food to find suitable options.
Great Reasons to Keep Loaches in Your Tropical Fish Tank
- Engaging personalities and interactive behaviour.
- Effective natural control of unwanted snails.
- Generally peaceful and well-suited to community aquariums.
Explore our Loach varieties below and choose the species that best suits your fish tank setup. If you're unsure, consider one of our Loach packages and enjoy convenient delivery of online live fish straight to your door.
