The Kuhli Loach

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Origin, body and aquarium

Pangio Kuhlii (known as the Kuhli loach), a fish that grows up to 10-12 centimetres comes from Java and Borneo. In order to offer them some kind of natural habitat it's recommended to keep them in planted fish tanks. Their bodies are slimmer than bodies of "YoYo loaches, however if you kept YoYo's you would notice that areas without overgrown roots or plants are suitable for them more than jungles. Heavily planted tanks make it difficult to move backwards or to the sides. We would suggest an aquarium with different environment stages, which should include plains, driftwood and caves, and well planted places. If you achieve this set-up, they will be able to hide (which they do through days a lot), they will be able to find foods and, if you have really large tank, they'll maybe breed. Moreover, if you can use floating plants (Azolla caroliniana, Lemna minor, Pistia stratiotes, or others), this species will appreciate it. Bear in mind that light must fall on the gravel. Well aerated and filtered tanks are welcomed.

pH and dGH levels should reflect soft acid water, but it is not a must; They will adapt to new conditions relatively fast and without problems. The last note about the aquarium is that you must use rounded rocks instead of sharp ones. My own tank with Kuhli Loaches contains small gravel with a diameter of approximately 8-10mm.

Behaviour and feeding

This species is suitable for community aquariums because of its peaceful temperament. Don't keep aggressive species which could harass Kuhli Loaches. This includes Puffers, and large or very aggressive cichlids. It is believed that Kuhlis eat the eggs of other bottom dwellers, however this myth isn't based on truth. They'll get along well with Catfish species (Bristlenose Catfish, Panda Cories).

Various internet sources say that it's easy to overfeed Kuhlis. In my opinion, you don't have to worry about it unless you know what to do. Overfeeding is considered to be the case when the fish's stomach is as full as possible and it borders on death.

In general, they eat granules, blood worms, flakes which fall down to the bottom levels, brine shrimp and other common fish foods.

Breeding and sexing

Sexing isn't possible unless you make an autopsy, which is of course a bad way of determining sex. Even though successful captivity breeding has been reported, it is not common. Kuhli loaches are caught in nature or bred in large hatcheries. On the other hand, if they somehow breed in your tank, use Artemia Salina as food for the fry. Because they're bottom dwellers they will rely on food which falls to the gravel. There is no need to remove parents or other fish if eggs hatch.

Price

An inexpensive fish which costs about $2-$4 per specimen. Adult specimens can be sold for more.

Pictures

Thanks to L. Staunton!


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The Kuhli Loach

has been viewed times since June 30, 2009.