Description
Khuli Loach (Pangio kuhlii) Care Sheet
Basic Information
• Common Names: Khuli Loach, Coolie Loach
• Scientific Name: Pangio kuhlii
• Family: Cobitidae
• Origin: Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand)
• Lifespan: 10+ years
• Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
Tank Requirements
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Water Type: Freshwater
• Water Temperature: 75-86°F (24-30°C)
• pH Range: 5.5-7.0
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3-12 dGH)
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate bodies and barbels
Filtration and Aeration
• Filtration: Gentle filtration is preferred. A sponge filter is ideal as it won’t create strong currents.
• Aeration: Moderate aeration to maintain oxygen levels.
Lighting
• Lighting: Low to moderate. Khuli Loaches are nocturnal and prefer dim lighting.
Habitat Setup
• Décor: Provide plenty of hiding spots with caves, driftwood, and densely planted areas. They enjoy burrowing and hiding during the day.
• Plants: Live plants are beneficial for creating a natural environment and providing cover. Anubias, Java Fern, and Cryptocoryne are good options.
• Tank Lid: Ensure the tank is covered as Khuli Loaches are known to be escape artists.
Diet
• Type: Omnivorous
• Preferred Food: Sinking pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They will also eat leftover food and detritus.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2-3 times a day. They primarily feed at night, so consider evening feedings.
Behavior and Compatibility
• Temperament: Peaceful and shy.
• Schooling: Best kept in groups of 5 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
• Tank Mates: Other peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, and small catfish. Avoid larger, aggressive fish.
Health and Maintenance
• Common Diseases: Prone to skin infections and parasites due to their lack of scales. Maintain good water quality to prevent diseases.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes of 20-25% weekly to keep the water clean and parameters stable.
• Observation: Regularly check for signs of stress or illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal swimming behavior.
Breeding
• Difficulty: Challenging in home aquariums.
• Breeding Setup: Provide a separate breeding tank with soft water, dense vegetation, and a slightly elevated temperature. Spawning mops or fine-leaved plants can serve as egg-laying sites.
• Spawning Behavior: They scatter eggs, which hatch in a few days. Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
• Fry Care: Feed the fry with infusoria or other tiny live foods until they are large enough to eat standard fry food.
By following these guidelines, you can provide a healthy and comfortable environment for your Khuli Loaches, ensuring they thrive in your aquarium.
