Manchurian Loach (Leptobotia mantschurica)

Leptobotia mantschurica is a temperate loach from the Amur River basin spanning northern China and the Russian Far East, with a boldly patterned body of dark brown blotches and saddles over a pale yellow-white background. Rarely seen in the hobby outside specialist collections, it requires cooler temperatures and is well-suited to unheated aquariums in temperate climates.

Keep in a well-filtered, cool aquarium of at least 120 L with strong circulation and rocky hiding spots. Do not use a heater; this species requires temperatures of 10–20°C. Feed sinking carnivore pellets, frozen bloodworm, and shrimp. Can be kept individually or in small groups. Active forager at dusk and night.