The Kuhli Loach (Pangio kuhlii) is a popular and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish known for its eel-like body, banded yellow and black coloration, and shy but social behavior. At around 4cm, this smaller-sized loach is perfect for nano and mid-sized aquariums and is a favorite among aquarists looking for an efficient scavenger that adds character to the lower tank levels.

Native to the slow-moving streams of Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia, Kuhli Loaches are nocturnal by nature, spending much of the day hiding under driftwood, in caves, or among plant roots. They're non-aggressive, making them ideal for peaceful community setups, and thrive best when kept in groups of 5 or more, which encourages natural schooling and playful behavior.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Pangio kuhlii

• Common Name: Kuhli Loach

• Size: Up to 10cm (this specimen: ~4cm juvenile)

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, social

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia)

• Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Tank Level: Bottom dweller

• Best kept in groups of 5+ to reduce stress and encourage activity

🌊 Water Conditions

Kuhli Loaches thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with gentle flow and lots of hiding spaces.

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.0

• Hardness: 1–8 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small group

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel (to protect delicate skin)

• Lighting: Low to moderate (they prefer dim conditions)

• Decor: Provide caves, driftwood, leaf litter, and dense plants

They love to burrow, so avoid sharp gravel or décor that could cause injuries.

🐟 Tank Mates

Kuhli Loaches are excellent community fish due to their peaceful nature and tendency to stay near the substrate.

Compatible with:

• Small, peaceful tetras and rasboras

• Corydoras

• Dwarf gouramis

• Shrimp and snails (if well-fed)

• Betta (in calm settings)

Avoid:

• Aggressive or large fish that may view them as food

• Fast, boisterous species that may outcompete them during feeding

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Kuhli Loaches are opportunistic scavengers, eating leftover food on the substrate, but they still need dedicated feeding.

Ideal diet:

• Sinking pellets or wafers

• Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Live blackworms or tubifex

• Occasional blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach)

Feed in the evening or at night, when they’re most active, and ensure food reaches the bottom.

🧼 Care Tips:

• Perform weekly water changes (20–30%) to maintain high water quality

• Use a tight-fitting lid—Kuhli Loaches can escape through small gaps

• Keep tanks well-cycled; they are sensitive to ammonia and nitrites

• A sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spaces help reduce stress

Though they are hardy once established, they may be shy at first and take time to acclimate to new surroundings.

🌿 Why Choose Kuhli Loaches?

Kuhli Loaches are charming, low-maintenance, and fun to observe, especially in groups. Their peaceful nature, scavenging habits, and unique appearance make them a valuable addition to planted or community aquariums, especially for aquarists looking to add activity to the bottom of the tank.

Bring life to the lower levels of your aquarium—add Kuhli Loaches today!