Common & Latin Name: Gold Sucking Loach (Gyrinocheilus Aymonieri)
Care level: Easy
Max Size: 25cm
Temp: 18-28°C
PH: 6.0 - 8.0
Approximate purchase size:
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Community
This is a species that isn't for everyone. The Gold Sucking Loach requires a large aquarium as it grows to 25cm in length. Flow should be fairly fast and highly oxygenated with smooth rocks scattered for the fish to hold on to.
Sucking Loaches are a commonly purchased fish because of the myth that they are good algae eaters for temperate or coldwater tanks. Unfortunately this is only true for juvenile specimens, whilst adults require a far more substantial diet. If this food isn't readily available, they often turn to their slower tank mates and terrorise them instead by sucking on their slime coat and occasionally even going beyond that. Goldfish in particular fall victim to sucking loaches as they aren't particularly fast and often end up being kept together with the loaches. However, smaller tank mates that appreciate fast flow, like Rainbow Shiners, White Cloud Mountain Minnows, Denison Barbs and Pencilfish make excellent companions for these fish. Adult sucking loaches can be somewhat territorial towards their own kind and other similar looking fish, so ensure that there's plenty of space in the aquarium if more than one is to be housed together.
Food can be offered in the form of algae wafers and sinking catfish wafers.
Please note that the image is for illustration purposes and the fish you will receive may not be identical. These fish are still juveniles and have yet to colour up. A healthy environment and good quality food will help bring them into full colour. If you have any questions about keeping these fish, please don't hesitate to ask a member of staff.
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