Blyth's Loach

Nemacheilus blyth is a nemacheilid stream loach from hill streams and moderate-current rivers in Myanmar and adjacent regions. It displays classic loach patterning: a series of brown-and-tan mottled blotches on a pale body that provide camouflage against the sandy and gravelly substrates of its native streams. Adults reach approximately 8 cm.

In the aquarium, N. blyth requires well-oxygenated, slightly cooler water with moderate current. A stream biotope setup with smooth pebbles, fine gravel, some larger stones for shelter, and good water movement suits it perfectly. It is not a peat-swamp species and does not require soft acidic water — neutral to slightly alkaline conditions are appropriate.

N. blyth is a social species that does best in groups of five or more individuals. It is an active bottom-dweller that forages constantly for small invertebrates and algae. It pairs well with other hill-stream species such as danios, devarios, and small barbs.

Water: 18-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, soft to moderately hard — well-oxygenated with moderate current. Tank: 60 L with smooth pebble substrate, rounded stones, and good flow replicating hill streams. Feeding: sinking pellets, frozen daphnia, bloodworm, and algae wafers; scavenges biofilm naturally. Breeding: egg scatterer among gravel; rarely bred intentionally in aquarium. Compatibility: peaceful with small to medium-sized stream fish; keep in groups of 5+.