Dojo Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus)
The Dojo Loach, also known as the Weather Loach, is a fascinating and hardy freshwater fish that brings personality and charm to any aquarium. Native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea, this species gets its nickname “Weather Loach” because it becomes more active when barometric pressure changes, often predicting storms!
Dojo Loaches have long, eel-like bodies and can grow up to 8 to 12 inches in length when fully mature. They come in various colors, including brown, gray, and the popular golden variety. Their smooth bodies are covered in small scales, and they have several whisker-like barbels around the mouth used to search for food along the substrate.
These loaches are bottom-dwellers that love to burrow into soft sand or fine gravel, so providing a smooth substrate is essential to prevent injury. They enjoy hiding spots like caves, driftwood, or dense plants where they can rest during the day.
Dojo Loaches are peaceful and social, doing best in groups of three or more. They make excellent tank mates for other gentle species such as tetras, danios, barbs, and corydoras. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or overly large fish.
They prefer cooler water temperatures between 68°F and 75°F and a pH of 6.5 to 8.0. Since they are quite active, a well-oxygenated tank with plenty of swimming room is ideal. A tight-fitting lid is also important, as Dojo Loaches are known jumpers.
In terms of diet, Dojo Loaches are omnivores that will eat a wide range of foods, including sinking pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and even small invertebrates. They also help clean up leftover food from the tank bottom.
Friendly, curious, and full of personality, the Dojo Loach is a wonderful choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. With good care and clean water, they can live for 10 years or more, making them a rewarding long-term addition to the aquarium.
Size: 4"-5"
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Dojo Loach
Came healthy and is thriving in tank.
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pretty small---but maybe they will get bigger
I'll let you know when I see them--kinda shy
