SCIENTIFIC NAME: MISGURNUS ANQUILLICAUDATU The Dojo Loach originates within the Rivers, Lakes, and Ponds of Asia and is farm raised for the aquarium industry. Loaches are bottom dwelling scavengers with reduced or absent scales and a mouth surrounded by barbels in which they use to find food. They have an elongated, smooth body that is gold to pink in coloration. They are peaceful and very efficient scavengers that will make a welcome addition to any community aquarium. The Dojo Loach requires a 30 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of hiding places and water temperatures that range between 68 and 76 degrees. They do well in a planted aquarium, but larger specimens may uproot plants in their search for food. Dojo Loaches are peaceful, and will not typically bother other fish in the aquarium. They also make excellent tank mates for fancy goldfish as they will do well in cooler temperatures. Use caution when housing them with small invertebrates such as Ghost or Japonica Amano Shrimp. Dojo Loaches can grow to decent size at around 8 inches in length and will also enjoy the company of their own kind. Very personable, Dojo Loaches are sensitive to barometric pressure and will become more active when a cold front comes through. Therefore, a tight, securely fitted lid is recommended as they can be prone to jumping during cold fronts. However, if you happen to find your loach black and dry on the floor one morning, try placing it back in the aquarium. Usually, it will revive and swim away and make a full recovery. The Dojo Loach is largely carnivorous, preferring freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well as frozen and live meaty foods of all types.
