Name: Dwarf Chain Loach
Brand: LiveAquaria
Availability: InStock

Quick Stats

Care Level Moderate

Temperament Semi-aggressive

Color Form Black, Tan, White

Diet Omnivore

Water Conditions 72-86° F, KH 8-12, pH 6.0-7.5

Max. Size 2"

Origin Cambodia, Farm Raised, Laos, Thailand

Family Cobitidae

Minimum Tank Size 30 gallons

Compatibility View Chart

What do these Quick Stats mean? Click here

Overview

The Dwarf Chain Loach is a bottom-dweller that originated from the streams in India. Currently due to the low numbers in the wild, they are being farm-raised. The body of this Loach is silver to tan in coloration and, like other loaches, this fish is identified by the four pairs of barbels protruding from the mouth area. The upper half of this fish is decorated with a checker-like pattern of black bars, which give this fish a very interesting look. The Dwarf Chain Loach is sometimes referred to as a scaleless fish; however, they do in fact have small scales that are embedded in their skin.

The Dwarf Chain Loach is an active scavenger that is a semi-aggressive fish that enjoys the company of its own species, or other semi-aggressive fish. It will school with others of the same age and size. The Dwarf Chain Loach appreciates caves, holes, and other places to hide, especially when it sleeps. Because it originates from streams, it requires water currents in the aquarium.

The Dwarf Chain Loach requires small amounts of food several times a day. Younger Loaches will eat most prepared foods while older ones may be more finicky. Feed them a varied diet of bloodworms, brine shrimp and a quality flake or pellet food.

Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4" to 1-1/2"

Acclimation Guide

Ideal Water Parameters

Shipping Schedule

Water Changes

Customer Testimonials

Write a Testimonial | Ask Customer Service

Tim K Buffalo , NY

I purchased one of these loaches several months ago. He gets along with everything and is doing fantastic. Great eater and the best part about him is that he will stay small which is great for my 45 gallon planted tank. Highly recommended fish!

Lori Z Nashville , TN

I have 3 of these spunky little guys. The first 2 weeks after I got them, they were shy and reclusive, but after getting used to their surroundings, they are the most animated fish in my tank. They are constantly playing and zooming around the tank. I got them because I had started to see small snails that must have come from a plant I bought at the local fish store. Haven't seen a snail since these guys have arrived on the scene. I can watch them diligently rooting around in the gravel for any food that ends up in the bottom. They are good eaters and love when I offer frozen brine shrimp or blood worms.

1-2 of 2 testimonials

More Aquatic Life

LiveAquaria Education Center

Hundreds of articles to help you with your aquarium.