Horsefaced Loach

Horsefaced loaches are omnivores that primarily feed on small invertebrates and organic debris found in the substrate. Offer a varied diet of sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and small crustaceans 2-3 times weekly. They will also consume algae wafers and vegetable matter, and benefit from occasional live foods like small shrimp or insect larvae to stimulate natural foraging behavior.

These loaches are primarily nocturnal and spend much of their time buried in sand with only their eyes visible, using their elongated snout to sift through the substrate for food. They are peaceful and non-aggressive toward other fish, though they may be shy and reclusive during the day. They are most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours, and should be kept in groups of at least 3 to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.

Breeding horsefaced loaches in captivity is extremely rare and poorly documented. They require very specific environmental conditions including soft, acidic water and seasonal temperature fluctuations to trigger spawning. Most specimens in the aquarium hobby are wild-caught, and successful captive breeding is not reliably achieved by hobbyists.