Guntea Loach

The guntea loach is a sand-colored, finely spotted bottom dweller that is very common in the lowland waters of South Asia. In the aquarium it usually reaches 8–12 cm and rarely grows larger. The sexes can be told apart by pattern: males have a dark stripe along the side and larger pectoral fins, while females are larger and spotted. It can stay buried in the sand all day with only its head showing.

• At least 80 liters and 80 cm of length for a group of 4–6.
• 20–25°C, pH 6.5–7.5; gentle flow.
• Fine, soft sand is essential; it gets injured on coarse gravel.
• Roots, stones and plants; a tight lid is needed.

It searches the sand for insect larvae and small crustaceans. Offer sinking granules and tablets, frozen daphnia, brine shrimp and bloodworms.

Peaceful; it may only eat eggs and fry. During the day it mostly waits buried and is more active in the evening. It is more relaxed and more visible together with its own kind.

Good companions: danios, rasboras, peaceful barbs, tetras, gouramis.

Avoid: aggressive cichlids that claim the bottom, aggressive botias, large fish that could swallow it.