Stone Loach
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q58300160" class="extiw" title="d:Q58300160"><span title="Czech malacologist and Wikipedian">Michal Maňas</span></a></bdi> (CC BY 3.0)
NameStone Loach
Scientific NameBarbatula barbatula
Common NamesStone Loach, European Stone Loach, Common Stone Loach
FamilyNemacheilidae
OriginEurope, Asia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)7
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-72
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesMinnows, Gudgeons, Dace, Other small, peaceful coldwater fish
Description
The Stone Loach is a slender, bottom-dwelling fish with a mottled brown and black pattern, providing excellent camouflage. It is a shy, nocturnal species that prefers cool, oxygenated water with a soft substrate for burrowing. This species is native to clear, flowing streams and rivers across Eurasia.
