Dwarf Gravel Loach (Cobitis shikokuensis)

Family: Cobitidae

A peaceful omnivore cobitidae from Japan — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 4.3–6.2 cm
Minimum tank: 62 L
Water layer: Bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+
Difficulty: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Origin: Japan

Species overview

A Cobitidae species native to Japan: Cobitis shikokuensis lives bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+ over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful. Adults reach 4.3–6.2 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Cobitis species we profile, alongside Cobitis lutheri, Cobitis sinensis, Cobitis biwae.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂: Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Fine sand
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Keep 3+; larger groups settle better
Diet: Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method: Egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Dwarf Gravel Loach easy to keep?

Difficulty: easy. Peaceful. Keep 3+; larger groups settle better.

What temperature and water chemistry does Dwarf Gravel Loach need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — community-standard range; verify locally. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily.

How big does Dwarf Gravel Loach get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 4.3–6.2 cm; it is bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+. Plan for at least 62 litres.

What does Dwarf Gravel Loach eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Dwarf Gravel Loach live with other fish?

Peaceful. Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Dwarf Gravel Loach come from?

Its home waters are Japan — clear streams, rivers and still waters, with moderate flow.

How does Dwarf Gravel Loach breed?

Egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.