Siberian spiny loach (Cobitis sinensis)

Family: Cobitidae

A peaceful omnivore cobitidae from China — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 10.7–15.3 cm
Minimum tank: 153 L
Water layer: Bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+
Difficulty: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Origin: 东亚淡水水系

Species overview

Cobitis sinensis of the family Cobitidae is an aquarium-kept Cobitidae. Peaceful and omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety, it grows to 10.7–15.3 cm and prefers 18–26 °C water. Other Cobitis species in our database include Cobitis lutheri, Cobitis shikokuensis, 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 Siberian spiny loach easy to keep?

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

What temperature and water chemistry does Siberian spiny loach need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Siberian spiny loach get, and what tank size?

Full size is 10.7–15.3 cm. Minimum tank: 153 L, with open swimming space along its bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+ habits.

What does Siberian spiny loach eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. It forages naturally over fine sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Siberian spiny loach live with other fish?

Peaceful; keep 3+; larger groups settle better. Good company: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Siberian spiny loach come from?

Comes from 东亚淡水水系: clear streams, rivers and still waters. Expect moderate flow and average oxygen needs.

How does Siberian spiny 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.