Elongate Loach (Leptobotia elongata)

Family: Cobitidae

A semi-aggressive carnivore cobitidae from the middle and upper Yangtze in China — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
35–50 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Origin
Yangtze basin, China

Species overview

Leptobotia elongata is a Cobitidae from Yangtze basin, China. In the wild it prefers clear streams, rivers and still waters; in the aquarium it stays semi-aggressive. Plan on 35–50 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. Related profiles: Leptobotia pellegrini, Leptobotia flavolineata, Leptobotia guilinensis.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Strong current with heavy aeration
Dissolved O₂
Demands high dissolved oxygen

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
Carnivore; quality prepared foods with variety; regular frozen or live foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
  • Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
  • Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Small fish and shrimp — Live-prey size

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method
Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Elongate Loach easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Semi-aggressive. Keep 3+; larger groups settle better.

What temperature and water chemistry does Elongate Loach need?

Set the heater to 22–28 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Elongate Loach get, and what tank size?

Expect 35–50 cm as an adult, living bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Elongate Loach eat?

Carnivore; quality prepared foods with variety; regular frozen or live foods. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Elongate Loach live with other fish?

Semi-aggressive. Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Small fish and shrimp — Live-prey size.

Where does Elongate Loach come from?

Its home waters are Yangtze basin, China — clear streams, rivers and still waters, with strong current with heavy aeration.

Does Elongate Loach jump?

A confirmed jumper: fit a tight lid and lower the waterline slightly.

How does Elongate Loach breed?

Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.