BotiidaeFreshwater Fishintermediate

Skunk Loach

Yasuhikotakia morleti

Origin: Mekong basin (Thailand, Laos)

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Water Parameters

Temperature2528 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH6.57.5
49
GH (Hardness)312 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)18 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
10 cm
Min Tank
100 L
Lifespan
8–12
Swimming Level
bottom
Schooling
Yes (5+)
Diet
omnivore
Temperament
Semi-aggressive with conspecifics; peaceful with other species in groups

About

Yasuhikotakia morleti, the Skunk Loach, sports a stark white body offset by a single black dorsal stripe running from snout to tail. Native to Mekong basin rivers in Laos and Thailand, it is an energetic and somewhat feisty loach that is best kept in groups of five or more to distribute any aggression. An enthusiastic snail predator and active tank scavenger. Suitable for community tanks with robust mid-sized fish.

Care Guide

Groups of 5+ reduce inter-species aggression. Sandy substrate, dim lighting, plenty of caves. Temperature 25–28 °C. Feed sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, live snails. Avoid housing with very small fish or long-finned varieties.

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