Oriental Weather Loach (Dojo Loach)

Misgurnus anguillicaudatus

Oriental Weather Loach (Dojo Loach) (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) — Intermediate care, Peaceful, under Loach. Minimum tank in the app: 53 US gal min; aim for 41–77°F and pH 6–8. The Oriental Weather Loach is an engaging choice for aquarists who appreciate active bottom dwellers and enjoy maintaining a dynamic tank environment.

Oriental Weather Loach (Dojo Loach) (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelIntermediate
TemperamentPeaceful
Min tank size53 US gal min
pH range6–8
Temperature41–77°F
Max size9.8 in (25.0 cm)
Captive lifespan8–12 years
SchoolingNo

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.

Natural distribution

East Asia

  • East & Southeast Asia

Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.

Oriental Weather Loach (Dojo Loach) Tank Setup

Create a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places using smooth, sandy substrate to protect their delicate bodies. Incorporate driftwood, plants, and rocks to establish territories and reduce aggression. Ensure strong water flow and oxygenation, as these loaches are sensitive to water quality; moderate lighting will also help mimic their natural habitat.

What Do Oriental Weather Loachs Eat?

These loaches are opportunistic feeders, often competing with faster fish during feeding time. It's important to provide a varied diet, including sinking pellets, vegetables, and live or frozen food, to ensure they receive essential nutrients and maintain their color.

Oriental Weather Loach (Dojo Loach) Tank Mates

Ideal companions include similarly sized, peaceful species that occupy different swimming levels, such as tetras or rasboras. Risky combinations might involve overly aggressive or fin-nipping species, which can stress the loach. While they are not shoaling fish, keeping them in groups of at least three helps alleviate loneliness and promotes natural behavior, as they engage more when together.

Are Oriental Weather Loachs Good for Beginners?

We rate this as intermediate. Budget time for testing, maintenance, and watching behaviour if the water looks fine but the fish do not. Aquarists often underestimate the bioload generated by these loaches, leading to poor water quality. neglecting their substrate needs can result in physical damage to their bodies.

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