Guntea Loach

Lepidocephalichthys guntea

Also known as Guntea

Animalia›Chordata›Cypriniformes›Cobitidae

The Guntea Loach is a small, peaceful bottom-dwelling fish native to South Asian freshwater systems. These loaches are excellent scavengers and spend most of their time sifting through substrate in search of food. They are best kept in small groups and thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots.

Where it's from

Native to the Ganges, Indus, Irrawaddy, Krishna and 3 other river basins

Nepal, Pakistan, Myanmar (Burma) and India

At a glance

Size: 1.5 in; 4 cm
Min tank: 20 gal; 76 L
Group: 3+
Temp: 72–79°F; 22–26°C
pH: 6.0-7.5
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 5-8 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Guntea Loaches are omnivorous bottom feeders that consume small invertebrates, algae, and detritus. Feed sinking pellets, algae wafers, and occasional live foods such as bloodworms or daphnia 2-3 times weekly. They will also graze on biofilm and leftover food in the substrate.

Behavior

These loaches are nocturnal and most active during evening hours, spending their time burrowing and sifting through the substrate. They are peaceful and social, preferring to be kept in small groups of 3 or more where they exhibit natural schooling behavior. They rarely venture into open water and are best observed with subdued lighting.

Breeding

Breeding Guntea Loaches in captivity is extremely difficult and rarely documented in the aquarium hobby. They require specific environmental triggers and spawning conditions that are challenging to replicate. Most specimens available in the trade are wild-caught or farm-raised.

Tank mates

See all 6

Neon Tetra

Small peaceful fish that occupy different water zones

excellent

Otocinclus

Similar peaceful bottom-dwelling behavior and feeding habits

excellent

Dwarf Gourami

Peaceful mid-water dweller that won't compete for bottom space

good

Corydoras Sterbai

Compatible bottom feeder with similar peaceful temperament

excellent

Ember Tetra

Small schooling fish that occupy upper water column

excellent

Fits a 20-gallon tank Peaceful

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).