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Maximum size : 30 cm

Weather Loach - Misgurnus anguillicaudatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Table of contents

Introduction

The charming and personable Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) might not be the most dazzling of fish, but its endearing behaviour and unique personality make it an exceptional addition to any aquarium. These hardy and active fish are often recommended as a great starter fish due to their peaceful nature. They can even become tame and may even allow physical contact or hand-feeding with their owners. While they can be kept individually, they tend to thrive best in groups of three or more. Ideally, they should be kept with medium to large-sized, active fish that occupy the higher levels of the aquarium. The Weather Loach is available in a range of colours, including a brassy metallic hue, a dull brown and even golden varieties. Some specimens are heavily marked, while others have light speckling or almost no markings at all. Occasionally, true albinos can also be found.

Weather Loach Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

When it comes to identifying the gender of the Weather Loach it can be a challenging task. However, there are some subtle differences between the sexes that can aid in their identification. Females tend to be plumper than males, particularly when they are carrying eggs. Meanwhile, males have larger and longer pectoral fins with a thickened second ray, which is more noticeable when viewed from above. These slight distinctions can help distinguish the gender of these fascinating fish.

Quick Facts

Scientific NameMisgurnus anguillicaudatus
Year Described1842
Other NamesDojo Loach, Oriental Weather Fish, Pond Loach
ClassificationActinopterygii
OrderCypriniformes
FamilyCobitidae
GenusMisgurnus
OriginsCambodia China Hong Kong Japan Laos Myanmar South Korea Taiwan Thailand Vietnam
Max Size30 cm
TemperamentPeaceful
Aquarium LevelBottom
DifficultyBeginner - Intermediate
ShoalingNo
Best kept asTrios
DietOmnivore
ReproductionEgg-Layer
Lifespan4 - 5 years

Water Parameters

Water TypeFreshwater
PH6.0 - 8.0
GH1 - 12
KH
TDS
Temperature
50 - 77
10 - 25

Natural Habitat

The Weather Loach is a fascinating fish that hails from a variety of regions, including Siberia, Korea, Japan, China, northern Vietnam, Sakhalin island, and possibly Laos. They are usually found in slow-moving or still waters, such as streams, rivers, swamps, backwaters, oxbows, and paddy fields, that are rich in vegetation or submerged branches, roots, and leaf litter. These habitats typically have a soft silt or mud substrate, making them the perfect environment for the Weather Loach to thrive.

Breeding

Regrettably, there is limited information available regarding the captive breeding of Weather Loaches. Reports on the subject matter are scarce and lack significant detail. However, it is presumed that these fish are stimulated to spawn through the use of hormones.

Diet & feeding

In an aquarium setting, it is recommended to offer a diverse diet to Weather Loaches to ensure their optimal health. They will accept sinking dried foods such as pellets and wafers, but their diet should also consist of small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, artemia, daphnia, and others. This frequent offering of various food types will provide the necessary nutrients for their overall well-being.

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