Hora's Loach (Yasuhikotakia morleti)

Family: Cobitidae

Hora's Loach — a Cobitidae from 中北美洲, 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
中北美洲

Species overview

Cobitidae species Yasuhikotakia morleti comes from 中北美洲. A sand-sifting bottom resident most active after the lights fade. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 11.5–16.8 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 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Water quality and diet matter more than décor.

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