Hora's Loach (Yasuhikotakia morleti)

Family: Cobitidae

Hora's Loach — a Cobitidae from Mekong basin, SE Asia, peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Reaches 11.5–16.8 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
11.5–16.8 cm
Minimum tank
339 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal
Origin
Mekong basin, SE Asia

Species overview

A Cobitidae species native to Mekong basin, SE Asia: Yasuhikotakia morleti lives bottom-dwelling over sandy stretches of slow rivers. Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Adults reach 11.5–16.8 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Yasuhikotakia species we profile, alongside Yasuhikotakia sidthimunki, Yasuhikotakia modesta.

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
Avoid keeping with
  • Boisterous feeders — Outcompete slow, nocturnal eaters

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Females noticeably plumper when mature
Breeding method
Scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare

Frequently asked questions

Is Hora's Loach easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident.

What temperature and water chemistry does Hora's Loach need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature stable range; 18–26 °C typical for the family.

How big does Hora's Loach get, and what tank size?

Full size is 11.5–16.8 cm. Minimum tank: 339 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Hora's Loach eat?

Omnivore that appreciates live or frozen treats. It forages naturally over fine sand for burrowing, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Hora's Loach live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal — pair it with Other peaceful bottom fish — Share the lower water without conflict and skip Boisterous feeders — Outcompete slow, nocturnal eaters.

Where does Hora's Loach come from?

Comes from Mekong basin, SE Asia: sandy stretches of slow rivers. Expect gentle current and tolerates moderate oxygen levels.

How does Hora's Loach breed?

In the aquarium: scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare. Females noticeably plumper when mature.