Weather Loach

Weather Loach

Misgurnus anguillicaudatus

Family: Cobitidae • Origin: Various

Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) is a peaceful loach reaching 10 inches. Keep in groups of 3+. Minimum tank: 75 gallons.

Min Tank
75 gal
Max Size
10"
Temperature
50-77°F
pH
6.5-8
Lifespan
15 years
School Size
3+
Swim Level
bottom
Hardness
5-15 dGH
peacefulbeginneromnivoreschooling

Is Weather Loach Right for Your Tank?

Weather Loach is an excellent choice for beginners — rated "beginner" difficulty (1/5). They're hardy, forgiving of minor water parameter fluctuations, and generally easy to feed. They need at least 75 gallons — a mid-size tank commitment. Plan your space accordingly.

With a peaceful temperament, Weather Loach makes a great community fish. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species of similar size. This is a schooling species — keep at least 3 together, or they may become stressed and display abnormal behavior. Expected lifespan: 15 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Weather Loach

Keeping fewer than 3 together

Weather Loach is a schooling species — they need a group of at least 3 to feel secure. Lone or paired individuals become stressed, hide constantly, and may develop health issues or aggression.

Putting them in a tank under 75 gallons

Many beginners underestimate tank size needs. Weather Loach requires at least 75 gallons — ideally 113. Cramped tanks lead to stunted growth, aggression, and poor water quality.

Care Tips

  • Max size: 10"
  • Temp: 50-77°F
  • pH: 6.5-8
  • Schooling: keep 3+
  • peaceful temperament

Feeding: Standard omnivore diet appropriate for Cobitidae.

Compatibility Notes: Typical peaceful Cobitidae species.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Tank Requirements

Minimum Tank Size
75 gallons
Recommended Tank Size
113 gallons
Swimming Level
bottom
Minimum School Size
3+ fish

Water Parameters

Temperature
5077°F
pH Range
6.58
Hardness (dGH)
515
Water Type
freshwater

Behavior & Temperament

Temperament
peaceful
Aggression Level
1/5
Schooling
Yes
Territorial
No
Fin Nipper
No
Predatory
No
Diet Type
omnivore
Growth Rate
fast

Typical peaceful Cobitidae species.

Breeding

Breeding Type
egg layer
Breeding Difficulty
moderate
Lifespan
15 years

Ideal For

75 gallon

Compatible Tank Mates

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