Blind Cave Loach (Nemacheilus troglocataractus)

Family: Nemacheilidae

Blind Cave Loach — a Nemacheilidae from cave waters of W Asia, peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Reaches 9.8–14.4 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: 9.8–14.4 cm
Minimum tank: 249 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal
Origin: cave waters of W Asia

Species overview

Nemacheilus troglocataractus is a Nemacheilidae from cave waters of W Asia. In the wild it prefers hill-streams and riffles over pebbles; in the aquarium it stays peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Plan on 9.8–14.4 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Nemacheilus stigmofasciatus.

Native biotope

Habitat: Hill-streams and riffles over pebbles
Flow: Strong, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂: Requires well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Smooth pebbles and coarse sand
Hardscape: Stacked stones forming crevices
Plants: Anubias and other hardy attachers

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 rounder-bodied
Breeding method: Scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare

Frequently asked questions

Is Blind Cave 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 Blind Cave Loach need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Cooler, stable range preferred; 18–26 °C typical for the family.

How big does Blind Cave Loach get, and what tank size?

Full size is 9.8–14.4 cm. Minimum tank: 249 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Blind Cave Loach eat?

Omnivore that appreciates live or frozen treats. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Blind Cave 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 Blind Cave Loach come from?

Comes from cave waters of W Asia: hill-streams and riffles over pebbles. Expect strong, well-oxygenated current and requires well-oxygenated water.

How does Blind Cave Loach breed?

Scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare. Females rounder-bodied.