
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Kuhli loach
Cute eel-like banded loach. Shy and hides often but active in groups. Fun to watch wriggling through substrate.
The kuhli loach (Pangio kuhlii) is a slender, eel-like loach native to the freshwater habitats of Java, Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula in Indonesia. Its striking orange-pink body traversed by dark brown to black transverse bands gives it a distinctive serpentine appearance. Growing to 8–12 cm, kuhli loaches are nocturnal bottom dwellers that spend daylight hours hidden beneath soft substrate, driftwood, or inside tubes, becoming active after lights out. Fine, soft sand substrate accommodates their burrowing behavior. Group housing of three or more individuals encourages more visible, active behavior compared to solitary keeping. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.0) at 24–28°C. Like corydoras, they practice intestinal breathing and tolerate low-oxygen conditions. Diet consists of sinking tablets, frozen bloodworms, and bottom-feeding foods; feeding after lights out ensures they receive sufficient nutrition before more aggressive tankmates claim the food. Peaceful with most community fish, they must be protected from predatory species. Breeding in captivity is extremely rarely achieved.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
the island of Java in Indonesia
Lifespan
5-10 years
Size
8-12cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Sinking tablets, frozen bloodworms
30cm+. Provide many hiding spots
Fine sand ideal. Burrows for fun
3+ together and they show themselves more
Nocturnal — active after lights off
May enter filter intake — use guard
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Kuhli Loach is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Kuhli Loach is 5-10 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Kuhli Loach typically reaches 8-12cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Kuhli Loach feeds on: Sinking tablets, frozen bloodworms. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Kuhli Loach varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
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