Dwarf chain loach
Ambastaia sidthimunki · Botiidae
Also known as Sidthimunki loach
Intermediate
A tiny, day-active social loach with a chain pattern; an excellent snail patrol for small tanks.
In short: A dwarf chain loach needs at least 90 L (24 US gal), water at 23–28 °C (73–82 °F) and pH 6–7.5. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated intermediate to keep.
- Minimum tank
- 90 L (24 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C (73–82 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Adult size
- 5 cm (2 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 90 L (24 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C (73–82 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness
- 2–15 dGH
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, snails.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Thailand and Myanmar (mostly captive-bred now)
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Clear, flowing, rocky streams
- Natural conditions
- Clean oxygenated water, caves, sand or smooth gravel.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Bottom
- Good tank mates
- RasborasCorydorasDanios
- Avoid
- Solitary keepingDirty waterShrimp fry
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- Females are rounder.
- Notes
- Commercially bred with hormones; rare at home.
- Common ailments
- Ich (very sensitive to medication doses)Skinny disease
Will it fit your tank?
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