Common Loach
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Helena_Moriano&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Helena Moriano (page does not exist)">Helena Moriano</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameCommon Loach
Scientific NameBarbatula barbatula
Common NamesCommon Loach, Stone Loach
FamilyNemacheilidae
OriginEurope, Asia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)6
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)59-72
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesWhite Cloud Mountain Minnow, Danios, Other small peaceful loaches, Temperate Barbs, Gudgeon
Description
The Common Loach is a small, bottom-dwelling freshwater fish native to Eurasia, often found in cool, clear streams. It has an elongated body with a mottled brown coloration and small barbels around its mouth, which it uses to forage for small invertebrates and detritus in the substrate. These peaceful fish are best kept in groups in a temperate or unheated aquarium with good water flow and plenty of hiding spots.
