Stone Loach
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Totti" title="User:Totti">Totti</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameStone Loach
Scientific NameBarbatula barbatula
Common NamesStone Loach, European Stone Loach, Fukudojō
FamilyNemacheilidae
OriginEurope, Northern Asia, Japan
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 SpeciesMinnows, Dace, Gudgeon, Other small peaceful loaches, Temperate cyprinids
Description
The Stone Loach is a slender, bottom-dwelling freshwater fish characterized by its mottled brown coloration and several barbels around its mouth, which it uses to forage for food. Native to cool, clear streams and rivers across Europe and Asia, it is a peaceful species that thrives in well-oxygenated environments with a soft substrate. They are nocturnal and often hide during the day.
