Kuhli Loach ~ Pangio kuhlii

Description & Care Guide:
The Kuhli Loach is a slender, eel-like fish known for its unique appearance and behavior. With its dark body marked by yellow or gold stripes, it is a peaceful and highly social species that thrives in community tanks. Kuhli Loaches are nocturnal, spending most of their time hiding during the day and becoming active at night. They are bottom-dwellers that scavenge for food, making them great for cleaning up leftover food and debris. Their playful nature and unique look make them a fascinating addition to aquariums.

• Difficulty Level: Easy

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons

• Food Requirements: Omnivorous – accepts sinking pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms and daphnia

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and best kept in groups of 4 or more

• Water Parameters: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0 - 7.5), temperatures between 75-82°F (24-28°C)

• Full Grown Size: 3-4 inches (7-10 cm)

Wild Habitats/Origins:
The Kuhli Loach is native to the slow-moving streams, rivers, and flooded areas of Southeast Asia, including countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. These fish are typically found in densely vegetated environments with sandy or muddy substrates, where they can burrow and scavenge for food. In the wild, Kuhli Loaches prefer slightly acidic water with a gentle current, hiding among the plants and substrate during the day to avoid predators.

Fun Fact:
The Kuhli Loach is often referred to as the "coolie loach" due to its distinctive, eel-like body and energetic, serpentine swimming style, making it one of the most interesting and entertaining fish to watch in an aquarium.