Family Cobitidae
Size: 4 inches
Temperature: 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Water: Not particular
Origin: Southeast Asia

Although it will live for several years in an aquarium where it is the only fish of its kind, it will seldom come out in the open under these conditions. If the kuhli loach is kept in small groups (three to six individuals), it will swim out in the open in and around piles of rocks and driftwood, looking for food, playing tag with its friends and generally performing its comical antics. It is an ideal community tank fish.

Because they come from the sandy beds of mountain streams, or slow-flowing rivers, they should be housed in aquariums with a fine sand substrate. They prefer plenty of dense vegetation, such as Cryptocoryne species, as well as hiding places in the form of driftwood, overturned flowerpots, roots and rocks. Floating plants can be used to provide the subdued lighting they prefer.

Kuhli loaches feed at night and will accept a wide variety of prepared flakes, freeze-dried foods and any small live foods that settle to the bottom. Supplement their diets with occasional servings of small worms, such as grindal worms, white worms or Tubifex worms.

They are not commonly spawned in the home aquarium. However, when a pair does spawn it is usually near the surface of the water and is evidenced with the male wrapping himself around the female. Many greenish eggs are released and they may sink or float to the surface. If the parents are not removed, they will eat the eggs.