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Freshwater fishPanda Loach
Panda Loach
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The panda loach is a small nano tank species, perfect with exotic fish and rasboras. These Chinese loaches come from the wild, where they feed on tiny insects. These fish will adapt to flake food but do best in groups of three or more and with a few plants in the tank. This time of year, late summer to early fall, the loaches are a bit on the small side but have great color and grow well.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Yaoshanicus arcus (sold as panda loach) |
| Origin | Southern China |
| Care Level | Moderate (needs cool, fast, oxygen-rich water) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 1½–2" |
| Lifespan | 5–8 years |
| Diet | Algae eater |
| Water Temperature | 68–75°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. ¾" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Hillstream loaches come from fast, clear mountain streams. Give them smooth rocks, strong current, lots of oxygen and cool water. They graze on algae, so a mature tank with algae-covered rocks is ideal.
Feeding: Hillstream loaches graze on algae. Also feed algae wafers or sinking pellets.
Tankmates: Hillstream loaches do well with peaceful fish that like cool, flowing water, such as white clouds, danios, rasboras and dwarf shrimp. Avoid tropical fish that need warm water.
Good to know: Hillstream loaches cling to rocks and glass with their flat, sucker-like bodies, just like they do in fast mountain streams.
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