Dojo Loach

The Dojo or Weather Loach has been kept in Japan and China for centuries, both as a food fish and as an ornamental. It earns its common name from its behaviour of becoming unusually active and surface-gulping before storms, responding to changes in barometric pressure.

In the aquarium the Dojo is endearingly interactive — individuals learn to recognise their keeper and will swim to the front of the glass at feeding time. They appreciate company and do best in small groups on a fine sandy substrate where they can partially bury themselves.

This species is extremely hardy, tolerating a wide temperature range and even oxygen-poor water by gulping atmospheric air. It is one of the most recommended beginner coldwater fish.

Water: 10–24°C, pH 6.0–8.0, GH 4–18; very tolerant; no heater required. Tank: minimum 100 L, fine sand substrate, hiding places among smooth stones or PVC pipes. Feeding: omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, tubifex, cucumber, and blanched vegetables. Breeding: rarely bred in captivity; requires simulated winter cooling followed by temperature rise. Compatibility: peaceful with all fish too large to be eaten; avoid very small nano species or shrimp.