UFO Loach (Ambastaia sidthimunki)
Description
The UFO Loach, also known as the Sidthimunki Loach, is a charming and unique species of freshwater fish that stands out for its distinctive appearance and playful behavior. Named for its "UFO" shaped markings, this loach is relatively small, making it a perfect addition to community tanks. Native to Southeast Asia, it thrives in clean, well-oxygenated water and can be a delightful and active presence in an aquarium. With its peaceful temperament and attractive markings, the UFO Loach is highly sought after by aquarists.
Key Features
- Scientific Name: Ambastaia sidthimunki
- Common Name: UFO Loach, Sidthimunki Loach
- Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6 cm)
- Temperament: Peaceful and active, but can be shy around larger fish
- Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
- Diet: Omnivorous – enjoys a variety of foods, including high-quality pellets, flakes, frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and vegetable matter like spinach.
- Tank Level: Bottom-dweller, enjoys burrowing in the substrate
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small group (preferably 3 or more)
- Water Temperature: 74°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C)
- pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5
- Water Hardness: 5-15 dGH
- Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel that won’t damage their delicate barbels.
- Tank Setup: Provide plenty of hiding spaces, such as rocks, caves, and plants. UFO Loaches also enjoy swimming among plants and driftwood, which can replicate their natural environment.
Care Tips
- UFO Loaches are peaceful and do best in groups of 3 or more to reduce stress and promote natural behavior.
- They are generally quite active but may shy away from larger, more aggressive fish, so it's best to house them with other peaceful tankmates.
- This loach loves a well-filtered tank with plenty of oxygenation, as it naturally inhabits fast-flowing waters in the wild.
- Regular water changes and maintaining stable water conditions are important for their well-being.
Compatibility
UFO Loaches are peaceful and do well in a community aquarium with other small, non-aggressive species, such as:
- Peaceful tetras (e.g., Neon Tetras)
- Corydoras Catfish
- Small peaceful shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp)
- Small Gouramis
Why Choose UFO Loaches?
The UFO Loach is a fun, active, and peaceful species with a unique appearance, making it a great addition to a community tank. Their playful nature and stunning markings make them a standout, and they thrive in well-maintained aquariums with compatible tankmates. If you’re looking for a small but charismatic loach, the UFO Loach is a perfect choice for any aquarist.
