Panda Loach (2–3cm) is a rare, eye-catching nano fish with bold black-and-white markings—ideal for cool, well-oxygenated aquariums with smooth substrates.

The Panda Loach (Yaoshania pachychilus) is a stunning and rare freshwater species prized for its striking black-and-white coloration, resembling a tiny panda—hence the name. At just 2–3cm, these juvenile loaches are small, peaceful, and perfect for aquarists with cool water, planted, and river-style aquariums. Native to fast-flowing mountain streams in southern China, Panda Loaches prefer highly oxygenated, clear water, with smooth rocks and sand that replicate their natural habitat.

Panda Loaches are particularly popular among aquascaping and nano-tank enthusiasts due to their unique pattern, energetic personality, and compatibility with other peaceful cool-water species. While small now, they grow slowly and can reach around 5–6cm as adults, so proper long-term care and a suitable environment are essential.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Yaoshania pachychilus

• Common Name: Panda Loach

• Size: 2–3cm (juvenile), up to 5–6cm as adults

• Temperament: Peaceful, curious, bottom-dweller

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Tank Zone: Bottom

• Best suited for cool, well-aerated, planted tanks

🌊 Water Conditions

Panda Loaches thrive in cool, fast-moving, oxygen-rich water with smooth substrates and strong current.

• Temperature: 18–24°C (64–75°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: 4–10 dGH

• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum (larger for groups)

• Filtration: High-quality with strong flow and oxygenation

• Substrate: Smooth sand or rounded gravel (for safe foraging)

• Decor: River stones, driftwood, mosses, and plenty of hiding spots

Floating plants or shaded lighting help mimic their native stream beds.

🐟 Tank Mates

Panda Loaches are non-aggressive and do well in peaceful, cool-water community tanks.

Great companions include:

• White Cloud Mountain Minnows

• Danios (like Zebra or Kyathit)

• Hillstream Loaches

• Pygmy Corydoras

• Freshwater snails or dwarf shrimp (in well-fed tanks)

Avoid:

• Warm-water tropical fish

• Aggressive or territorial species

• Fish that may outcompete them for food at the bottom

Keep at least 3–5 Panda Loaches together to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Panda Loaches are omnivorous grazers that spend their time foraging on surfaces, including rocks, driftwood, and plant leaves.

Best diet includes:

• Algae wafers and spirulina-based sinking tablets

• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber)

• Live or frozen baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops

• Micropellets or gel foods designed for loaches

Feed 1–2 times daily, and make sure food reaches the bottom.

🧼 Care Tips:

• Maintain crystal-clear water with regular changes (30% weekly)

• Use oxygen-rich filtration systems with flow

• Keep the tank well-covered, as loaches can jump

• Provide smooth, algae-rich surfaces for grazing

• Monitor for stress signs if housed alone—these are social fish

Panda Loaches are sensitive to poor water quality and require stable, clean environments to thrive long-term.

🌿 Why Choose Panda Loaches?

The Panda Loach offers a rare blend of beauty, peaceful nature, and ecological interest. Its distinct coloration, active foraging, and compatibility with planted tanks make it a standout for any aquarist wanting to recreate a cool-water mountain stream habitat.

Add a bold and beautiful bottom dweller to your aquarium—choose Panda Loaches today!