Horseface loach Care Guide

The Horseface Loach is a bottom dweller that thrives in a well-maintained aquarium that mimics its natural habitat. An ideal setup includes a substrate of fine gravel or sand to facilitate its natural burrowing behavior. This loach will spend a significant amount of time partially buried in the substrate, often with only its eyes and elongated snout protruding, which helps it feel secure. To enhance their environment, incorporate live plants and floating plants to provide shaded areas, as well as hiding spots created by rocks and driftwood. These additions help reduce stress and promote natural behavior.

Water quality is crucial for the well-being of the Horseface Loach. They prefer clean, well-oxygenated water with moderate water movement, mimicking the conditions of their native streams. The water temperature should be maintained between 22-26°C (72-79°F), with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Regular water changes and a good filtration system are essential to keep the water parameters stable, as this species can be sensitive to poor water conditions.

In terms of diet, the Horseface Loach is not particularly picky and will accept a variety of foods. They are omnivorous and enjoy a diet consisting of dried foods like sinking pellets and flakes, as well as live and frozen foods. Offering live foods such as mosquito larvae and brine shrimp can help encourage natural foraging behaviors and provide the nutrition they need. Feeding should be done in moderation to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.