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, Asia, Japan
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelbeginner
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)6
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-70
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesWhite Cloud Mountain Minnow, Danios, Other peaceful temperate loaches, Small temperate cyprinids
Description
The Stone Loach is a slender, bottom-dwelling fish characterized by its mottled brown and cream coloration and distinctive barbels around its mouth. These barbels are used to forage for small invertebrates and detritus in the substrate of its natural riverine habitats. It is a peaceful and hardy species, making it suitable for temperate freshwater aquariums.
