Dojo Loach

• ExerciseLow

  A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• GroomingRoutine tank care

  Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment7–10 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions

The Dojo or Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) comes from East Asia, including China, Korea, Japan and Siberia, and grows to about 20 to 25 cm. Its common name reflects a real sensitivity to falling barometric pressure, which prompts bursts of agitated swimming before weather changes. It can breathe atmospheric air through its intestine, letting it survive in poorly oxygenated water. This is a subtropical fish, not a tropical one, and that is the key husbandry point: it does best at 16-24C and suffers in a heated tropical community over the long term. Give a group of three or more a tank of 200 litres or more with a large footprint, soft sand it can burrow into, smooth decor and a tight lid, since it escapes readily. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, frozen bloodworm and blanched vegetables. It is peaceful, personable and often becomes tame enough to take food from a hand, but it will uproot plants and should not be housed with tiny fish it might swallow.

• How active is a Dojo Loach?

  Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• How much maintenance does a Dojo Loach need?

  Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.

• What tank size does a Dojo Loach need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Dojo Loach a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Dojo Loach live?

  7–10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Dojo Loach?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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