Kohchangensis Stream Loach

Schistura kohchangensis is a small, neatly barred stream loach first described from Koh Chang island and subsequently found in adjacent mainland Thailand drainages. It carries a series of regular dark bars on a pale body with slightly orange-tinged unpaired fins, giving it a clean, attractive appearance that fits naturally into planted stream or Southeast Asian biotope setups.

This species inhabits clear, moderately flowing streams over fine gravel and sand substrates. In the aquarium it requires well-oxygenated water with gentle to moderate current, fine substrate, and an assortment of small rock caves. It is a peaceful, relatively easy-to-maintain Schistura suitable for intermediate-level loach keepers.

Feeding consists of micro sinking pellets, frozen daphnia, bloodworm, and small live invertebrates. The Kohchangensis Stream Loach does well in groups of five or more, which reduces individual hiding and encourages natural, visible foraging behaviour across the tank bottom.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 20–26°C, well-oxygenated, gentle to moderate flow. Tank: 60 L minimum; fine sand, smooth pebbles, rock caves, some plant cover. Feeding: Micro sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, small live invertebrates. Breeding: Not documented in captivity. Compatibility: Peaceful; suitable for Southeast Asian community stream tanks.