Horseface Loach

In the wild, adults reach 20 cm in length. The body is eel-like, with short fins and tail. The distinctive feature is a drawn-out head whose shape resembles a horse's head. The eyes are placed close together and high on the head. Colour ranges from grey to brownish, with dark spots across the body. Sexual dimorphism is slight: males are usually a little smaller than females, but there are no other obvious differences.

The natural range of this species extends across Southeast Asia, including waters in Sumatra, Borneo and Java, as well as peninsular Malaysia; its presence in Thailand remains uncertain. The exact boundaries of its distribution are not fully known. Loaches prefer river bottoms with soft substrate — silt, sand or fine gravel. During the rainy season they often move into flooded areas.

These fish are peaceful and calm toward other species. Some rivalry between horseface loaches over territory is possible, but such conflicts rarely cause injury. They can be kept singly or in a group, provided the tank is large enough.

A group of three fish needs at least 200 litres. Pay special attention to the substrate when setting up the tank. Soft sand is ideal, allowing the fish to bury themselves easily with just the head showing. Gravel or substrates with sharp particles can damage the skin. Driftwood and shade-loving plants make good décor. Plant aquatic plants in pots to prevent them being uprooted. A few Indian almond leaves will give the water a natural brownish tint. Moderate water flow, high dissolved oxygen and excellent water quality are essential. Keep the tank clean by regularly removing organic waste and doing a 30–35% water change each week.

These fish feed by sifting the substrate in the mouth for small invertebrates such as crustaceans, insect larvae and adult insects. In the aquarium, feed sinking foods: dry granules and flakes, and frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp or daphnia.

Most juveniles in the aquarium trade come from commercial farms. Successful breeding of this species in home aquariums is rare. At the time of writing, breeding these loaches was possible only for experienced aquarists.

Health problems usually occur only as a result of injury or unsuitable conditions, which weakens the immune system and typically triggers various diseases. When the first signs of illness appear, first check the water parameters for excessive or dangerous concentrations of toxic substances (nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, etc.). Once all parameters are normal, begin treatment.

When buying, choose active fish that show interest in foraging in the substrate if tank conditions allow you to observe their behaviour. A healthy fish should have clean skin with no visible sores, film, spots or damage, especially on the head and fins. Check breathing: it should be steady, with no signs of frequent gasping at the surface if the tank has adequate oxygen. Avoid specimens showing signs of emaciation, such as a sunken belly or protruding bones. Be aware that these fish have sharp spines beneath the eyes, so care is needed when netting and transporting them to avoid injuring the fish or damaging the net. Before buying, make sure your tank has a layer of fine soft sand ready, as the lack of suitable substrate in the shop may damage the delicate mouth apparatus and barbels.