Kuhli Loach

Pangio kuhlii

Also known as: Coolie loach, Leopard loach

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 21–26°C
• pH: 3.5–7
• Hardness: 0–143 ppm

Care Summary

A nocturnal, eel-shaped loach prized for its peaceful nature and unusual appearance. Spends most of the day hidden in caves, plants, or under decor, becoming active mainly at dawn, dusk, or after lights-out. Long-lived — properly kept kuhlis can exceed 10 years in captivity, which surprises most keepers. Requires a tight-fitting lid; they are exceptional escape artists, and any unsealed gap in the lid will be found. Sensitive to medications, particularly those containing copper. Best kept in mature tanks with stable parameters and plenty of dense cover.

Tankmates

A peaceful, eel-like bottom-dweller that requires a group of at least 5 to behave naturally — solitary kuhlis hide constantly and may never be seen. Best kept on smooth sand substrate; sharp gravel injures their delicate skin and barbels. Will eat shrimp eggs and small shrimplets, so not recommended for active shrimp-breeding tanks. Tankmates should be peaceful and non-competitive at feeding time, as kuhlis are slow eaters that often miss food taken by faster species.

Compatible with

• Betta
• Neon Tetra
• Harlequin Rasbora
• Ember Tetra
• Honey Gourami
• Pearl Gourami

Avoid keeping with

• Large Cichlids
• Fin Nippers
• Aggressive Tankmates
• Cherry Shrimp

Common Problems

• escape from uncovered tanks
• sensitivity to copper and many medications
• injury from sharp substrate
• starvation in tanks with faster feeders
• stress and constant hiding if kept in groups smaller than 5

Sources: seriouslyfish.com, fishbase.org · Last updated: 2026-06-03