Horseface Loach (Acanthopsis choirorhynchus) 4-6 cm

The Horseface Loach is a peaceful bottom-dwelling fish known for its elongated snout and remarkable ability to camouflage itself. In nature, it inhabits sandy rivers and streams in Southeast Asia, where it spends much of its time buried in the substrate.

This fascinating species thrives in aquariums with fine sand, allowing it to display its natural burrowing behavior. Often only the eyes remain visible above the sand while the fish observes its surroundings.

Care Requirements

• Size: approximately 12–15 cm
• Temperature: 24–28 °C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water hardness: soft to moderately hard
• Minimum aquarium size: 150 liters
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Behavior

Horseface Loaches are peaceful fish that do well in community aquariums with other calm species. They appreciate sandy areas, hiding places, and plenty of bottom space.

Feeding

Suitable foods include:

• Insect larvae
• Bloodworms
• Artemia
• Small crustaceans
• Sinking foods

Important Notes

A fine sand substrate is essential. Coarse gravel may damage the fish’s delicate snout and prevent natural burrowing behavior. This species performs best in mature, stable aquariums with excellent water quality.

An intriguing and unusual bottom-dweller for aquarists seeking something different from the typical loach species.