Dwarf Chain Loach

Dwarf Chain Loach

The Dwarf Chain Loach (Yasuhikotakia sidthimunki) is also known as the ladderback loach, pygmy loach, or chain botia, and is native to the Mae Klong basin (including Khwae Noi River) in Thailand, and the Ataran River on the Thai-Myanmar border. The Dwarf Chain Loach species is considered to be endangered in its native Thailand, but is now captive-bred on a large scale in the far East.

Dwarf Chain Loaches are an ideal choice for the smaller peaceful aquarium community, and will thrive in a shoal. Dwarf Chain Loach have delicate barbels, so a sandy substrate is recommended with plenty of hiding places such as caves, bog wood, and aquatic plants.

Do Dwarf Chain Loaches eat snails?
The Dwarf Chain Loach, like most loaches, often preys on tiny shrimp and snails. This can be very useful in helping reduce pest snails, but not ideal if you keep larger ornamental snails and shrimp.

Please be aware that the image is for illustration purposes only. Unless stated, we are unable to guarantee the exact size, colour, sex or age of the fishes you are purchasing. If you have any questions regarding livestock please contact us. To minimise stress we are unable to hand-pick specific. Lifespan is an estimate based on optimum conditions.

Features
Approx. size 3cm
Maximum size: 3"
Origin: Thailand
Family: Botiidae
Temperament: Peaceful
Lighting requirement: Low
Ideal number kept together: 5+

Water conditions
Our conditions: pH 7.5
Ideal pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: low/moderate (8 dGH)
Water flow: moderate/high
Temperature: 25–30 °C

Ease of care
Easy. Will thrive in a larger shoal of 5 or more. Requires fine substrate and plenty of hiding places.

Diet
Omnivore - The main food we recommend would be blood worm, small granules, flake and other sinking food. Mixing in some live or frozen brine, or other fresh alternatives can help enhance their health.

Compatibility
Peaceful. Dwarf Chain Loaches have been known to eat snails (pest and otherwise) and shrimp.

Breeding
Egg layers. Not very common in captivity. 

Life Span
They can live to 5+ years in perfect conditions.

For more information on general fishkeeping and our shipping procedures click here.