Eel loach

Pangio anguillaris

Family : Cyprinidae

FishFreshwaterPangio

The eel loach is an elongated, eel-like fish, ideal for peaceful community aquariums. It enjoys sandy substrates and hiding places.

Popularity
Community fish
classic in freshwater aquarium
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Southeast Asia
Rivières et forêts inondées d'Indonésie, Malaisie, Thaïlande.

Description

Pangio anguillaris has a very elongated, cylindrical body reminiscent of an eel, with a brownish to yellowish coloration and darker markings. Its fins are small and transparent. It is a nocturnal fish that spends the day buried in sand or hidden under roots. It is gregarious and must be kept in groups of at least three. Its burrowing behavior is fascinating to watch. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates and worms. In the aquarium, it accepts frozen foods and sinking pellets.

Habitat

Region :

Slow-moving streams and rivers, swampy areas and stagnant waters rich in vegetation

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH67
GH210 °dGH
KH15 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
1/5
Diet
Omnivore
Min. tank
60 L
Min. group
3
Adult size
12 cm
Lifespan
6 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
egg-layer

Care notes

Keep this species in an aquarium of at least 60 liters with a fine sandy substrate to allow burrowing. Water should be soft to moderately hard, with a pH of 6.0–7.0 and a temperature of 24–28 °C. Gentle filtration is recommended to avoid strong currents. Plant densely and add roots, smooth stones, and leaf litter to recreate a natural biotope. Feed with a varied diet: bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets for bottom dwellers. Avoid aggressive or overly large tankmates. Regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References