Description
Black Kuhli Loach (Pangio oblonga)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Pangio oblonga
Family: Cobitidae
Origin: Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam)
Size: 3 – 4 inches (7 – 10 cm)
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Bottom dwellers (excellent burrowers)
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 80 – 200 ppm
pH: 5.5 – 7.0
Temperature: 24 – 29°C (75 – 84°F)
Hardness: 3 – 8 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Smooth, eel-like body with solid dark brown to black coloration.
Peaceful, shy, and mostly nocturnal.
Spend time burrowing and hiding in caves or leaf litter.
Very social and active when kept in groups.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Sinking pellets, frozen/live bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, crushed veggies.
Feeding: 1–2 times daily; best fed after lights off.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
Filtration: Gentle sponge-guarded filter (they can enter small openings)
Decor: Soft sand, driftwood, caves, thick plants, leaf litter
Water Change: 25–30% weekly
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 5–6 (social schooling loaches)
Tank Mates: Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, small Gouramis, peaceful nano fish
Avoid: Cichlids, barbs, large predators, fin-nippers
✅ Do’s
Use soft sand for safe burrowing
Keep in groups for confidence
Provide hiding spots and low lighting
❌ Don’ts
Don’t use sharp gravel
Don’t keep them singly
Don’t overfeed—moderate feeding is enough
⭐ Quick Tips
Hardy, peaceful bottom loaches ideal for community tanks
Fully black body makes a striking contrast in planted aquariums
Great at cleaning leftover food—but not algae eaters
