Black Kuhli Loach — a Cobitidae from Southeast Asia, peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Reaches 9–13.2 cm; sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident. 24–30 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
24–30 °C
pH
5.5–6.5
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
Southeast Asia
Species overview
Cobitidae species Pangio oblonga comes from Southeast Asia. A sand-sifting bottom resident most active after the lights fade. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 9–13.2 cm. Sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident. Choose sand over gravel, feed after dusk, and keep ammonia at zero — loaches punish neglect visibly. Maintain 24–30 °C at pH 5.5–6.5. Best suited to a keeper who can match its natural water.
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
Other peaceful bottom fish — Share the lower water without conflict