How long do Kuhli Loaches live?
Kuhli Loaches are surprisingly long-lived, commonly 7-10 years with good care. Stable water and a mature tank are what carry them that far.
What do Kuhli Loaches eat?
They are scavengers that take sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen/live foods like bloodworms and daphnia; they are not 'tank cleaners.' Overfeeding and relying on scraps are the usual mistakes.
Tank size and water parameters
A 20-gallon (75 L) tank suits a group of 5-6. Target 75-86°F (24-30°C), pH 5.5-7.0, soft water, zero ammonia and nitrite, nitrate under 20 ppm. Keep in groups of 5+ on fine sand with plenty of hiding places; cover the tank as they can slip out.
Common mistakes with Kuhli Loaches
Key errors: coarse gravel that prevents burrowing and damages them; too small a group so they hide forever; aggressive or large tank mates that eat them; and poor water quality they tolerate poorly.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Coarse gravel — they need fine sand to burrow safely.
- A tiny or lone group — 5+ helps them feel secure enough to show.
- Predatory tank mates — kuhlis are easily eaten.
- Poor water quality — they are sensitive to ammonia and nitrite.