Japanese spined loach — a Cobitidae from Korea & Japan, peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Reaches 9–13.2 cm; sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
9–13.2 cm
Minimum tank
209 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal
Origin
Japan and Korea
Species overview
A Cobitidae species native to Japan and Korea: Cobitis takatsuensis lives bottom-dwelling over sandy stretches of slow rivers. Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Adults reach 9–13.2 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Cobitis species we profile, alongside Cobitis lutheri, Cobitis shikokuensis, Cobitis sinensis.
Native biotope
Habitat
Sandy stretches of slow rivers
Flow
Gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Tolerates moderate oxygen levels
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand for burrowing
Hardscape
Smooth stones and driftwood caves
Plants
Low-light tolerant plants
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident
Diet
Omnivore that appreciates live or frozen treats
Recommended tankmates
Small calm cyprinids — Occupy a different water layer
Avoid keeping with
Large predators — Loaches are on the menu
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Females noticeably plumper when mature
Breeding method
Scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare
Frequently asked questions
Is Japanese spined loach easy to keep?
A moderate-level species: peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
What temperature and water chemistry does Japanese spined loach need?
Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature stable range; 18–26 °C typical for the genus.
How big does Japanese spined loach get, and what tank size?
Adults reach 9–13.2 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 209 litres.
What does Japanese spined loach eat?
Omnivore that appreciates live or frozen treats. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.
Can Japanese spined loach live with other fish?
Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Recommended tankmates: Small calm cyprinids — Occupy a different water layer. Avoid Large predators — Loaches are on the menu.
Where does Japanese spined loach come from?
Comes from Japan and Korea: sandy stretches of slow rivers. Expect gentle current and tolerates moderate oxygen levels.
How does Japanese spined loach breed?
Scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare. Females noticeably plumper when mature.