Our Guide To Keeping Weather Loach Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
- Common name: Weather Loach
- Family: Cobitidae
- Origin: East Asia, from the Amur River basin to northern Vietnam
- Adult length: 15 to 30 cm
- Lifespan: 5 to 10 years
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Tank Setup:
- Weather Loaches prefer a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a small group of these fish.
- Provide hiding spots and substrate with a soft texture as Weather Loaches enjoy burrowing. Incorporate smooth rocks and driftwood into the tank for them to explore.
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Water Parameters:
- Weather Loaches are adaptable to various water conditions, but they thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Maintain the water temperature between 18 to 24°C (64 to 75°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- Choose a filter with a gentle to moderate flow, as Weather Loaches do not appreciate strong currents.
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Diet:
- Weather Loaches are omnivores and accept a varied diet. Feed them high-quality sinking pellets or flakes as a staple, supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small insects.
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Tank mates:
- Weather Loaches are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other non-aggressive species. They do well with similar-sized companions such as peaceful barbs, danios, and other loach species.
- Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping tank mates that may stress or harm them.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Weather Loaches are known for their interesting behavior, including burrowing and playing dead. They are social fish and thrive in groups of three or more.
- Keep them away from aggressive or territorial fish that may disrupt their peaceful environment.