Dojo Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) – Tank-Bred

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The Dojo Loach, also known as the Weather Loach, is a long-bodied, peaceful bottom-dweller known for its quirky behavior and unique ability to detect changes in barometric pressure. These fascinating fish are extremely hardy and add both movement and character to any cool or temperate freshwater aquarium. These specimens are tank-raised and currently 3+ inches in size.

⚠️ Important Legal Note: The Oriental Weatherfish aka Dojo Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) is considered an invasive species in several U.S. states and is illegal to possess or sell in: California, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Wisconsin, Oregon, New Jersey, and Alabama. Please check your local regulations before purchasing. We are unable to ship this species to these states. If you reside in one of the above states and try to checkout with this fish in your cart you will be unable to checkout and receive an error message until the fish is removed from the cart.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Unique Behavior: Responds to changes in atmospheric pressure—earning it the nickname “Weather Loach.”

• Peaceful Nature: Excellent for community aquariums with other non-aggressive fish.

• Bottom Cleaner: Constant scavenger that helps manage leftover food and detritus.

• Cold-Water Hardy: Thrives in a wide range of temperatures, perfect for unheated indoor tanks.

Natural Habitat:

Native to East Asia, the Dojo Loach is found in slow-moving rivers, marshes, and rice paddies with soft, muddy bottoms. In the home aquarium, they prefer gentle flow, soft substrate, and areas of dense vegetation or shaded hiding spots.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Java Fern, Anubias, Vallisneria, Hornwort

• Hardscape: Smooth river stones, driftwood, sand or fine gravel

• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves and alder cones help mimic natural environments and enrich the water with tannins

Diet and Feeding:

Dojo Loaches are omnivores and eager scavengers. Feed them a variety of sinking pellets, Repashy gel foods, frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp, and fresh vegetables like zucchini or blanched spinach.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Dojo Loaches are extremely peaceful and do well with other calm community fish such as rasboras, danios, white cloud minnows, and goldfish. Avoid aggressive or overly territorial tankmates.

Not Shrimp Safe:

May coexist with adult shrimp, but they can eat smaller shrimp or fry, especially in less heavily planted tanks. Provide dense plant coverage and hiding spots if mixing with inverts.

Breeding:

Rare in captivity. Breeding typically requires simulated seasonal cues like temperature drops and rises. Eggs are usually scattered among fine-leaved plants or moss.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 50° – 77°F (10° – 25°C)

• pH: 6.5 – 8.0

• KH: 4 – 12 dKH

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (larger recommended for groups)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet including frozen, live, and prepared foods.

• Social Behavior: Very social—best kept in groups of 3 or more.

• Origin: Tank-Raised

• Average Adult Size: 6 – 8 inches (can exceed 10 inches in spacious environments)

• Average Purchase Size: 3+ inches

Bring character and activity to your freshwater tank with the personable and quirky Dojo Loach—just be sure to check your local laws before purchasing.

Live Arrival Guarantee:

All Aquatic Arts brand animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support from our team of aquatic experts.