A 2.5 cm loach washed in warm pink with dark blotches, and males deepen to a genuine rose when displaying. Small enough for a nano tank, which almost no other loach can claim.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- 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.
- Commitment4โ6 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Skin conditions
๐ Care guide
The Rosy Loach (Petruichthys sp. 'rosy', still awaiting a formal species name) comes from shallow, warm, heavily vegetated waters in northern Myanmar and reaches only about 2 to 2.5 cm. Its pinkish body carries a row of dark smudges along the flank, and dominant males flush a deeper rose during courtship displays. It is one of the very few true nano loaches available. Keep a group of eight or more, and preferably twelve, in a planted tank from 40 litres at 22-27C with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and gentle flow. Sand, fine plants, leaf litter and shaded areas suit it, and it spends time at all levels rather than staying strictly on the bottom. Its mouth is small, so feed crushed micro-pellets, powdered foods, live and frozen baby brine, daphnia, cyclops and microworms. It is peaceful and shrimp safe with adult shrimp, though it may take shrimplets. As with all loaches, medicate at half strength.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Rosy Loach?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Rosy Loach need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Rosy Loach need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Rosy Loach a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Rosy Loach live?
4โ6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Rosy 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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