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Zodiac Loach
Mesonoemacheilus triangularis
Also known as Triangle Loach
Animalia›Chordata›Cypriniformes›Nemacheilidae
Kept by 1 member in 1 tankThe Zodiac Loach is a small, bottom-dwelling loach from Southeast Asia known for its distinctive triangular body shape and peaceful demeanor. These active scavengers are excellent for community tanks and spend most of their time foraging along the substrate. They are hardy fish that adapt well to various water conditions, making them suitable for intermediate aquarists.
Where it's from
Native to the Bharathapuzha, Cauvery, Chalakkudy, Chaliyar and 16 other river basins
India
At a glance
- Size
- 3 in
- 8 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal
- 76 L
- Group
- 3+
- Temp
- 75–82°F
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 6.5-7.5
- GH
- 89–214 ppm
- 5–12 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Zodiac Loaches are omnivorous bottom feeders that consume algae wafers, sinking pellets, and small live foods such as bloodworms and daphnia. Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily, ensuring food reaches the bottom of the tank. Supplement with blanched vegetables like zucchini occasionally.
Behavior
These loaches are nocturnal and crepuscular, becoming most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours. They are social fish that should be kept in groups of at least three, displaying interesting interactions and reduced stress. They spend most of their time on the substrate searching for food and exploring hiding spots.
Breeding
Breeding Zodiac Loaches in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved in home aquariums. They require very specific water conditions and triggers that are difficult to replicate. Professional breeders occasionally succeed with heavily planted tanks and careful conditioning, but most aquarium specimens are wild-caught or farm-raised.
Tank mates
See all 6Small, peaceful fish that occupy different water zones
Similar bottom-dwelling habits and peaceful temperament
Compatible bottom feeders with similar care requirements
Peaceful mid-water dweller that won't compete for bottom space
Schooling fish that occupy middle water column peacefully
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Bacterial Infection, Parasitic Infection
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, rubbing against objects
Raise temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), use ich medication, perform water changes, ensure good filtration
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, use antibacterial medication, remove sharp decorations
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, color fading
Quarantine affected fish, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication, maintain pristine water conditions
Parasitic Infection
Excessive scratching, weight loss, visible parasites, clamped fins
Use anti-parasitic medication, perform partial water changes, quarantine if necessary, improve tank hygiene
Legality
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).
At a glance
- Size
- 3 in8 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal76 L
- Group
- 3+
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 6.5-7.5
- GH
- 89–214 ppm5–12 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
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