Kuhli Loach

Pangio kuhlii is a small loach from the forest streams of Southeast Asia, with an elongated, eel-like body banded in dark and pale stripes. It is a burrowing, mostly nocturnal fish that spends the day tucked into décor or under the substrate and emerges to forage as the tank darkens.

Tank & water. Kuhli loaches reach about 8–10 cm (3–4 in) but are very slim, and a group suits a 57–75 litre (15–20 US gallon) tank. They prefer soft, slightly acidic to neutral water at pH 5.5–7.0 and temperatures of 24–28 °C (75–82 °F). A soft sand substrate is important because they like to burrow and their delicate bodies and barbels are injured by sharp gravel; plenty of hiding spots make them feel secure enough to come out.

Temperament. They are entirely peaceful and are social, doing best in groups of at least five or six, where they become far bolder and more visible; a lone kuhli tends to hide constantly. They mix well with small, calm community fish and won't bother tankmates. Their shy, secretive nature means keepers should be patient — a new kuhli may vanish for days before settling in.

Diet & care. Kuhli loaches are omnivorous scavengers that root through the substrate for food, so sinking foods — wafers, sinking pellets and occasional frozen bloodworms — should reach the bottom, especially since they feed at night. They are escape artists and skinny enough to slip through gaps, so a well-covered tank and filter intake are wise.