Loach guide: different types and their role in the tank

What loaches do

Loaches are scavengers and bottom dwellers. They sift substrate, eat leftover food, and some species help with snails. They are not a substitute for good maintenance — but they add activity and character to the lower levels of the tank. Many are social and need groups.

Kuhli loaches

Small, eel-like, striped. They hide in caves and under decor during the day and come out at night or in dim light. Keep at least five or six; they are shy alone. A 20 gallon tank with sand substrate and plenty of hiding spots works. Peaceful and gentle. They don’t eat snails but will clean up leftover food.

Clown loaches

Large (up to 12 inches), colourful, and long-lived (20+ years). They need a big tank — 75+ gallons for a group, 125+ for adults. They are social and should be kept in groups of five or more. They eat snails and can help with pest control. Sensitive to poor water quality.

Yo-yo loaches (Pakistani loaches)

Medium-sized, patterned with a dark “yoyo” marking. Active, sometimes boisterous. They eat snails and can be territorial with each other. A 40+ gallon tank for a small group. Not ideal for very calm, shy tank mates.

Dwarf chain loaches

Small, striped, and energetic. Good for 20–30 gallon tanks. Keep in groups of six or more. They eat small snails and pest snails; good for snail control in planted tanks. They can be nippy with some fish — research compatibility.

Zebra loaches

Striped, peaceful, and smaller than yo-yos. Similar care: groups, hiding spots, sand substrate. Good for community tanks where you want loach activity without the size or aggression of larger species.

General care

Most loaches prefer sand or fine gravel (they sift and dig). Provide caves, driftwood, or plants for cover. They can be sensitive to medications — avoid copper-based treatments. Use a stocking calculator to check bioload and compatibility before adding.

Quick takeaways

• Kuhlis: small, shy, peaceful; need groups and hiding spots.
• Clowns: large, long-lived; need big tanks and groups.
• Yo-yos and dwarf chains: snail eaters; can be boisterous. Match tank size and mates.