PisciDex Species Profile
Weather Loach
Cool-water burrowing loach that grows large and needs smooth substrate, secure lids, and regionally legal sourcing.
Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
Cobitidae | East Asia | China, Korea, Japan, and nearby East Asian drainages
Core Requirements
Tank Size
55 gallons minimum
Adult Size
12 inches
Group Size
Group 3+
Bioload
4/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
59-72 F
Tolerated Temp
50-77 F
pH
6.5-8
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
No
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Cool-water compatibility recommendation is 59-72 F; the broader 50-77 F ecological range is treated as tolerated, not preferred.
Care Warnings
- Cool-water social loach that needs a group, soft substrate, and tankmates that tolerate lower temperatures.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Peaceful
Aggression
1/10
Diet
Omnivore
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
10 years
Breeding
Advanced
Schooling
Yes
Compatibility Tags
Large TankPeacefulSchoolingBottom DwellerPlant SafeSand Preferred
Similar Species
Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.