Loach
Small bottom-dwelling freshwater fish found across Eurasia and Africa.
Loaches are a diverse group of ray-finned fish living on riverbeds in Eurasia and northern Africa. They include over 1200 species ranging from tiny eel-like forms to larger stout-bodied varieties kept in aquariums or eaten as food.
- Over 1200 species exist in nine families.
- Range from 23 mm to 50 cm in length.
- Many have barbels and hidden scales.
- Popular in aquariums and Asian markets.
- Some species live in dark caves.
What it is
Loaches are small, bottom-dwelling fish with elongated bodies and minute scales often hidden under the skin. Most have whisker-like barbels around the mouth to help find food. They vary greatly in shape, from slender eel-like types to stout forms. Some possess a sharp spine below the eye. Colours range from brown to black patterns along the back and sides.
Where it lives
These fish inhabit rivers and creeks across Europe, northern Africa, and central to Southeast Asia. Many live in rocky mountain streams at high elevations, while others prefer lowland riverbeds with sandy bottoms. At least three families include blind species adapted to dark cave environments. The oriental weatherfish has been introduced to parts of the United States.
How it lives
As benthic creatures, loaches spend their time on the substrate of water bodies. They are highly diverse, with over 1200 known species divided into nine families. Their behaviour varies by type, with some burrowing into sand in flat terrain. They are part of the order Cypriniformes, which includes minnows and carps, making them relatives of many common freshwater fish.
Fish and people
In East and Southeast Asia, loaches are common food fish sold in local markets. They are also popular in the global aquarium trade, with species like the clown loach and kuhli loach being well-known pets. Aquarists feed them sinking discs. While native to the Old World, some species have established populations outside their natural range.
Questions people ask about Loach
What is a loach?
A loach is a small freshwater fish that lives on the bottom of rivers and streams. They are found in Eurasia and northern Africa and are known for their whisker-like barbels and elongated bodies.
Are loaches good for aquariums?
Yes, many loaches are popular in the aquarium trade. Species like the clown loach and kuhli loach are common choices. They require specific foods like sinking discs and suitable tank conditions.
Do people eat loaches?
Yes, loaches are an important food source in East and Southeast Asia. They are frequently seen in local markets and prepared as part of traditional diets in these regions.
Good reading and sources
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Loach", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryFish rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.
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