Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus)

Misgurnus anguillicaudatus, the Weather Loach, earns its name from its remarkable sensitivity to barometric pressure changes, displaying increased activity and surface visits before approaching storms — a behaviour long observed by Asian farmers. Its long, eel-like body is patterned with brown and cream mottling, and its unique ability to breathe atmospheric oxygen allows it to survive in the low-oxygen conditions of muddy pond bottoms. A fascinating and exceptionally hardy species for European outdoor ponds year-round.

House in a minimum 200 L pond or large indoor aquarium with a soft sand or mud substrate for burrowing. Temperature 4–25°C; fully cold-hardy and can overwinter in outdoor European ponds. Feed sinking pellets, bloodworms, and pond snails. Add smooth pebbles and plant cover around pond edges as shelter. Compatible with koi, goldfish, and other pond species. Ensure secure pond edges — weather loaches can slip through surprisingly small gaps.