Stephanidis Loach

Cobitis stephanidisi is one of the rarest and most geographically restricted spiny loaches in Europe, known only from a handful of river systems in central and northern Greece. Named after the Greek ichthyologist Panagiotis Stephanidis, it is a small, delicately patterned species with a series of fine spots and blotches on a pale body. Its limited distribution and sensitivity to habitat degradation make it a protected species in Greece.

Aquarium care requires strict attention to water quality — as a species from oligotrophic Greek rivers, it is intolerant of organic pollution and nitrate accumulation. Very clean, cool, well-oxygenated water with fine substrate and minimal organic load is essential. The aquarium should be mature and heavily biologically filtered before introducing this species.

Feeding consists of the finest available sinking foods: micro-pellets, frozen cyclops and daphnia, and occasional live blackworm or grindal worm. The Stephanidis Loach is a true specialist's fish for the experienced keeper of European freshwater biotope aquaria.

Water: pH 7.0–8.0, temperature 12–22°C, oligotrophic conditions — very low nitrate and organic load. Tank: 80 L minimum; deep fine sand, smooth stones, mature biological filtration, cool water. Feeding: Micro sinking pellets, frozen cyclops, daphnia, live blackworm or grindal worm. Breeding: Not documented; seasonal cool period likely required. Compatibility: Peaceful; suitable only for specialist coldwater biotopes.