Black Kuhli Loach 5cm

Black Kuhli Loach

The Black Kuhli Loach is a sleek, oddball fish native to slow-moving rivers and streams in Southeast Asia. Its elongated, eel-like body and solid dark coloration distinguish it from its striped cousin, the regular Kuhli Loach. Known for their shy yet active nature, Black Kuhli Loaches are a great choice for aquarists looking for a peaceful and unique addition to their community tanks.

The Black Kuhli Loach is quite snake-like with its smooth, uniform dark brown to black coloration that can appear almost velvety under aquarium lighting. Actually, a better comparison would be to the deep sea hagfish, these black Kuhli loaches are essentially a mini version of them aesthetically. The head is slightly pointed, with small, beady eyes that are partially covered by transparent skin. Adults can grow to a length of 8-10 cm, making them larger than other Kuhli species. These black kuhlis also are noticeably thicker as well making them a lot more noticeable.

Black Kuhli Loaches are nocturnal and spend much of their time hiding during the day, emerging at night to forage. They are peaceful, social fish that thrive in groups of 5 or more, where they exhibit more natural and active behaviour. Black Kuhli Loaches are excellent burrowers and often dig into the substrate to hide or search for food. Breeding in captivity is rare and requires specific conditions, such as soft, acidic water and dense plant cover. Females become visibly plumper when carrying eggs, which are typically laid among floating plants.

Tank Recommendations for your Black Kuhli Loach
These fish prefer a minimum tank size of 70 litres, with plenty of hiding spots provided by caves, tunnels, and dense vegetation. A soft, sandy substrate is crucial to avoid damage to their sensitive undersides and barbels as they like to burrow. The water temperature should be kept between 24-28°C with a pH level of 6.0 - 7.0.

Suitable Tank Buddies
Black Kuhli Loaches are peaceful bottom dwellers who can get along with a variety of tank mates. Care should be taken to ensure they are getting fed and that the food is not being eaten before it reaches the bottom.

Usually Compatible
Peaceful community fish such as giant danios, hillstream loaches, Freshwater gobies, corydoras, gourami, and other species.

Sometimes Compatible
Bigger, more active fish might stress the Black Kuhli loaches as they are shy and prefer a calm environment. Any school of fast-moving fish may also eat all the food before it reaches the bottom.

Rarely Compatible
Aggressive or predatory fish that might harass or eat the Black Kuhli Loaches. Such species include Oscars, Red Devils, and similar large and aggressive fish.

Feeding your Black Kuhli Loach
Being omnivores, Black Kuhli Loaches accept a wide variety of foods. A balanced diet of quality sinking pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp will keep them healthy. It may also be good to use a baster or feeding pipe to ensure food actually reaches the bottom of the aquarium. Doing a small dedicated feeding at night will also be great since these fish are mostly nocturnal.