Misgurnus anguillicaudatus

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Weather Loach
Weather Loach
Species	Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
Difficulty	Moderate
Min. Tank Size	132.489 liters 132,489.412 mL 35 US Gallons (132.5L)
Size	25.4 cm 8-10 " (20.3-25.4cm)
pH	7.0 - 8.0
Temp.	283.15 K 50 °F 509.67 °R 298.15 K 77 °F 536.67 °R10 -25 °C (50-77°F)
Water Hardness	8-12
Stocking Ratio	1:2 M:F
Availability	Uncommon
Diet	Omnivore Pellet Foods Flake Foods Live Foods
Life Span	6-8 years

[edit] Alternative names

Weather Loach, Dojo Loach, Weather Fish, Oriental Weatherfish, Pond Loach

[edit] Other Scientific Names

Cobitis anguillicaudata, Misgurnis crossochilus, Misgurnus lividus, Misgurnus fossilis anguillicaudatus, Ussuria lepocephala

[edit] Sexing

Pectoral fins are larger and more triangular in appearance on the males. Female have slightly thicker bodies.

[edit] Tank compatibility

An active tank inhabitant that should be kept in a minimum group of 3 individuals, more if possible. Can be kept with other sub-tropical or coldwater fish, but should not be kept with Goldfish as they are high waste producers and this is detrimental to the Dojo Loach.

[edit] Diet

Will take try foods like flakes, also they appreciate skinned cooked peas. Will also take live/frozen food such as bloodworm and daphnia, as well as eating small snails.

[edit] Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day.

[edit] Environment Specifics

They are found in coldwater to sub tropical temperatures in the wild. Will not thrive at tropical temperatures. Keep in a well oxygenated tank with a good current. They like to dig so a soft substrate and secure decor is appreciated, may uproot plants.

[edit] Behaviour

Very active, and often goes crazy when the weather is changing hence the name "weather loach". A water loach can jump out of your aquarium on very rare occasion, and can also interact with humans. Can be taught to be handfed.

[edit] Identification

An exceptionally elongated snake-like body with many bristles on the nose. Come in a variety of colour morphs from a brassy, almost metallic colour to a dull brown. Some fish are boldly marked, while others have almost no markings beyond light speckling. A "golden" variety is available, which is hypo-melanistic, with dark eyes, plus very occasionally true albinos are seen.

[edit] Pictures

Weather Loach

Golden Weather Loach

[edit] External links

• Fishbase
• Loaches.com