Stone Loach
Image: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/hu:Zsoldos_M%C3%A1rton" class="extiw" title="w:hu:Zsoldos Márton">Zsoldos Márton</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameStone Loach
Scientific NameBarbatula barbatula
Common NamesStone Loach, Beardie, European Stone Loach
FamilyNemacheilidae
OriginEurope, Asia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelbeginner
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)6
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-72
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesWhite Cloud Mountain Minnow, Rosy Barb, Danios, Other peaceful temperate fish
Description
The Stone Loach is a slender, bottom-dwelling freshwater fish native to clear, oxygenated rivers and streams across Europe and parts of Asia. It features a mottled brown coloration and several barbels around its mouth, which it uses to forage for food. This peaceful and primarily nocturnal species is an excellent scavenger for temperate aquariums.
