Weather Loach - Misgurnus anguillicaudatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The charming and personable Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) might not be the most dazzling of fish, but its endearing behaviour and unique personality make it an exceptional addition to any aquarium. These hardy and active fish are often recommended as great starter fish due to their peaceful nature. They can even become tame and may even allow physical contact or hand-feeding with their owners.
While they can be kept individually, they tend to thrive best in groups of three or more. Weather Loaches exhibit inherent tranquillity and are conducive to harmonious cohabitation with a diverse array of peaceful fish species that share congruent temperature preferences and occupy the higher levels of the aquarium. Compatibility is contingent upon the potential tankmates' capacity to accommodate the dynamic behaviour of this species without disruption.
The Weather Loach is ideally suited to cohabit with medium-to-large, active fish species that predominantly occupy the upper strata of the aquarium. While it is frequently recommended as a compatible tank mate for various ornamental variants of Carassius auratus (goldfish), such as comets and shubunkins, caution is advised when pairing it with slower-moving fancy goldfish, as the Weather Loach's vigorous activity, especially during feeding, can be disruptive.
Weather Loaches are predisposed to attaining substantial dimensions and, owing to their remarkably energetic nature, necessitate an expansive habitat. An aquarium spanning at least 4 feet in length is deemed the essential baseline requirement. While it has been observed that this species can endure periods of unfavourable water conditions, such instances should not be misconstrued as standard practice, nor should they serve as a rationale for suboptimal care. It is incumbent upon the keeper to furnish these remarkable specimens with consistently well-oxygenated and pristine water conditions.
Optimal substrate composition involves the utilization of fine sand, a measure undertaken to safeguard the sensitive sensory barbel region from potential harm while simultaneously facilitating the fish's innate burrowing behaviours. To address the piscine need for sheltered havens, the inclusion of bogwood and cavities is recommended, affording the fish secluded locales for refuge as dictated by their instincts. Furthermore, a secure and snugly fitting aquarium lid is imperative, given their adeptness at escaping confinement.
The Weather Loach presents an elongated, eel-like morphology characterized by a cylindrical body that tapers towards the posterior region. This species is equipped with two pairs of barbels situated on the lower jaw and an additional three located around the upper mouth area.
Diverse colouration options are observable among these Loaches, encompassing a spectrum that ranges from a brassy metallic tint to subdued shades of brown, inclusive of variations exhibiting a golden complexion. The markings on specimens vary markedly, ranging from pronounced patterning to delicate speckling, with certain individuals featuring minimal or even absent markings. In some instances, genuine Albinos of this species can also be encountered.
Weather Loach Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
When it comes to identifying the gender of the Weather Loach it can be a challenging task. However, there are some subtle differences between the sexes that can aid in their identification. Females tend to be plumper than males, particularly when they are carrying eggs. Meanwhile, males have larger and longer pectoral fins with a thickened second ray, which is more noticeable when viewed from above. These slight distinctions can help distinguish the gender of these fascinating fish.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Misgurnus anguillicaudatus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1842 |
| Other Names | Dojo Loach, Oriental Weather Fish, Pond Loach |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cobitidae |
| Genus | Misgurnus |
| Origins | Cambodia , China , Hong Kong , Japan , Laos , Myanmar , South Korea , Taiwan , Thailand , Vietnam |
| Max Size | 30 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Trios |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 8 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 1 - 12 |
| ℉ | 50 - 77 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 10 - 25 |
Natural Habitat
The Weather Loach is a fascinating fish that hails from a variety of regions, including Siberia, Korea, Japan, China, northern Vietnam, Sakhalin island, and possibly Laos. They are usually found in slow-moving or still waters, such as streams, rivers, swamps, backwaters, oxbows, and paddy fields, that are rich in vegetation or submerged branches, roots, and leaf litter. These habitats typically have a soft silt or mud substrate, making them the perfect environment for the Weather Loach to thrive.
Breeding
Regrettably, there is limited information available regarding the captive breeding of Weather Loaches. Reports on the subject matter are scarce and lack significant detail. However, it is presumed that these fish are stimulated to spawn through the use of hormones.
Diet & Feeding
In an aquarium setting, it is recommended to offer a diverse diet to Weather Loaches to ensure their optimal health. They will accept sinking dried foods such as pellets and wafers, but their diet should also consist of small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, artemia, daphnia, and others. This frequent offering of various food types will provide the necessary nutrients for their overall well-being.
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