Elongate River Loach

Aborichthys elongatus is a remarkably elongated, eel-bodied stream loach from the Himalayan foothills, found in the Brahmaputra drainage of northeastern India and Bangladesh. Its serpentine body reaches up to 12 cm and is patterned with alternating dark and pale bands that deepen in colour in mature adults. The elongated form is an adaptation to life in fast-flowing streams where the fish must navigate between cobbles and beneath boulders.

In the aquarium this species requires brisk current, high oxygenation, and a complex substrate of fine sand with smooth rounded pebbles and flat rocks to hide beneath. It is a social species and should be kept in groups of at least five, which encourages bolder behaviour and more frequent visibility during the day. Tank décor should replicate a Himalayan foothill stream with moderate to heavy planting against stronger open-water flow zones.

Feeding is straightforward: micro pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and live invertebrates are all accepted. Aborichthys elongatus is an underrepresented and fascinating species in the hobby, offering genuine novelty for the stream-fish enthusiast who has experience with the more familiar hillstream loaches.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 18–25°C, high oxygen, strong current. Tank: 80 L minimum; fine sand and smooth pebbles, flat rock caves, strong flow area. Feeding: Micro pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, live invertebrates. Breeding: Not documented in captivity. Compatibility: Peaceful with other stream species; ideal in Himalayan foothill biotopes.