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Black Kuhlii Loach
$8.00
Available in-store only
Free in-store pickup
Ready to collect at our Melbourne store
Quarantined & health-checked
Every fish passes through our dedicated quarantine system and strict biosecurity monitoring before sale - so it arrives healthy, settled and ready to thrive. How we quarantine →
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Description
About Black Kuhli Loach
The Black Kuhli Loach is a fascinating freshwater bottom-dwelling fish recognised for its slender, eel-like body and deep black to dark brown colouration. Unlike the more commonly seen banded Kuhli Loach, the Black Kuhli has a predominantly solid dark body.
They are peaceful, shy and highly entertaining once settled into an aquarium. Black Kuhli Loaches spend much of their time exploring the substrate, hiding beneath driftwood and plants, and searching for food.
They are social fish and are best kept in groups. A group of six or more will generally display much more natural and confident behaviour than a single specimen.
Fine sand is particularly important because Kuhli Loaches naturally burrow and forage through the substrate. Avoid sharp gravel that could damage their delicate bodies and barbels.
A heavily planted aquarium with driftwood, leaf litter, caves and shaded areas provides an excellent environment. They are particularly well suited to peaceful community aquariums and shrimp setups.
Quick Care Guide
Scientific Name: Pangio oblonga
Common Name: Black Kuhli Loach
Family: Cobitidae
Type: Freshwater Bottom-Dwelling Loach
Adult Size: Approximately 8–10 cm
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Easy
Minimum Group: 6+
Temperature: 22–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
Diet: Omnivore
Tank Level: Bottom
Suitable For: Community aquariums, planted tanks, shrimp aquariums and natural-style freshwater setups
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Black Kuhli Loaches should I keep?
They are social fish and should ideally be kept in a group of 6 or more. Larger groups often become more active and confident.
Do Black Kuhli Loaches need sand?
Fine sand is highly recommended. They naturally burrow and forage through the substrate, so sharp or abrasive gravel should be avoided.
Are Black Kuhli Loaches peaceful?
Yes. They are extremely peaceful and are excellent community aquarium fish.
What do Black Kuhli Loaches eat?
They accept sinking pellets and wafers, as well as frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia. Feed after lights-out if necessary, as they are often more active during the evening and night.
Can Black Kuhli Loaches live with shrimp?
Yes. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with adult freshwater shrimp. Very small shrimplets may occasionally be eaten if encountered.
Common Mistakes
Keeping only one or two
Kuhli Loaches are social and are much more confident when kept in groups.
Using sharp gravel
Their soft, elongated bodies are easily damaged by abrasive substrate. Fine sand is ideal.
Not providing hiding places
Driftwood, caves, plants and leaf litter give them security and encourage natural behaviour.
Assuming they will survive on leftover food
They need targeted feeding with sinking foods to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.
Keeping them with aggressive fish
Their peaceful and shy nature makes them unsuitable for aggressive community aquariums.
Shipping & delivery
This product is for in-store purchase only. Available for in-store pickup.
Returns
We stand behind everything we sell. If something is not right, get in touch and we will make it right. See our returns policy for the details.
Care & quarantine
This fish has been through our dedicated quarantine system and is feeding, settled and health-checked before sale. We still recommend acclimating slowly and quarantining new additions at home. Our team is happy to talk you through the right setup - just ask.
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