Loaches are active, social bottom-dwellers that prefer to live in groups, where they show their best, often playful behaviour. Most are peaceful but can be a bit boisterous, so they’re best kept with other robust, non-aggressive community fish. A minimum aquarium size of around 100 litres is recommended for smaller species, with larger tanks needed for bigger loaches like clown loaches, plus strong filtration and good oxygenation. They thrive in tanks with soft sand or smooth gravel, plenty of caves, wood and hiding spots, and appreciate dimmer lighting and some flow. Loaches are excellent scavengers but still need a varied diet of sinking pellets, wafers and frozen foods to stay healthy.
