Kuhli loach is small peaceful and unusual looking fish and easy to keep and fun to observe. They are very common and commonly found in pet store. Being common doesn’t mean that these eel like fish is boring to keep. In fact they have very interesting behavior that makes them delight to watch especially in group. The icing on the cake is that they are very affordable and hardy. They are perfect for beginners and expert fish keepers.

About Origin:

This fish is known by some other name including eel loach and leopard loach. The common name kuhli loach comes from scientific name of Pangio Kuhli attribute to the German naturalist Heinrich kuhl who described this species. The kuhli loach is native to the south east asia specifically java, Indonesia. These are easily available in pet store and you can find them in each store. Kuhli loach is small fish. Getting them in group is really cheap as they are affordable to buy.

Fish Size and Lifespan:

They grow 3-4 inches or 7.6 to 10 cm long in captivity over several years. With proper care and suitable environment, they can live as 10-12 years. Perhaps the most important thing to remember when caring for kuhli loach is that they should always be kept in group of at least 6 -8 loaches. In nature they gather together in hiding spots in the dozzens. It is thought that this makes them feel safe. In the aquarium, keeping them in the group also allow them to feel confidant to explore the tank even when the lights are on.

Water Quality:

Kuhli loach is tropical fish and requires temperature range of 72-82º F. They can be adapted in pH of 5.5 to 7.2. But in reality they are very hardy and tolerant. They do best in very clean water and mild to minimum water current.

Tank Decoration:

Kuhli loaches should be kept in a tank with lots of hiding places. They hide themselves behind rocks, wood, caves and plants. Lots of plants are good for them. They occupy the bottom of the tank. They like to search food in the substrate. It is best to have medium shaped sand with no sharp edges so that they don’t get injured. Sometimes they hide under the sponge filters.

Feeding:

They are micro predators. They will rule around at bottom for food. They are very easy to feed. They like to eat pellets, flakes, bloodworms and brine shrimps. Though they are very shy, eventually they come up during feeding time.

Behavior and Tank mates:

Kuhli loaches are completely peaceful. They don’t bother other fish at all. These mean they can be kept with many other peaceful fishes including guppies, other loaches, corry catfish  and even gourami. They can be kept with shrimps too. They are also great escapers. Using their body colors they can be easily hide and camouflage.

Maintaining Good Health: Following steps are essential for maintaining good health of Kuhli Loach:

a. Clean your tank at regular interval. Try once a week and change 30-40% water each time. Use vacuum to remove disposed waste from the substrate.

b. During cleaning, withdraw guppies from the tank and keep them in other tank.

c. Clean aquarium will increase the visual observation of your fish.

d. Observe movement of your fish and separate sick fish from the tank immediately.