Stone Loach
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Karelj" title="User:Karelj">Karelj</a> (Public domain)
NameStone Loach
Scientific NameBarbatula barbatula
Common NamesStone Loach, European Stone Loach
FamilyNemacheilidae
OriginEurope, Western Europe, Central Europe, Eastern Europe
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)7
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-72
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesWhite Cloud Mountain Minnow, Danios, Other peaceful temperate stream fish
Description
The Stone Loach is a hardy, bottom-dwelling freshwater fish native to Europe. It has a mottled, camouflaged body and distinctive barbels around its mouth, which it uses to forage for food in the substrate. These peaceful fish are best kept in cool, well-oxygenated aquariums with a soft substrate for burrowing.
