Next to cory cats meet an aquarists' lovable big water dogs.
Quick Specs:
Origin: Northeast Asia
Temperature: 65F-75F
PH: 6-7.5
Size: average 6 inches or max 12 inches
Schooling? Not necessary but preferred
Life Span: 7-10 years
Care Level: Easy
Basic Care:
Dojo loaches are one of the easiest beginner fish. This is because they are very tolerant of many water conditions. The most important condition to meet is the temperature. These fish prefer a much colder temperature than the average tropical fish. They are able to survive in warmer temperatures but at the cost of a shorter life span.
Before you buy...
Before getting a dojo loach, consider buying more than just one as they are social creatures, and having 3-4 will increase their activity levels. They also prefer softer substrate but will do fine in any substrate that won't scratch up their smooth bodies. These loaches are also notorious for digging up live plants in substrate. Consider getting deeply rooted plants and avoid loosely anchored stem plants. If stem plants are simply your forte, try burying them deep. Because of their active behavior, loaches also stir up the substrate frequently. This can cause not clear water or dislodging of certain hardscapes. They are clumsy, almost blind, race horses. They also should be in a tank with a powerful filter to handle their bioload.
Feeding
One of my biggest worries when keeping a bunch of bottom feeders was over-feeding. I would frequently refrain from feeding everyday because I was worried about overfeeding. Unbeknownst to me, my 5 dojo loaches had huge stomachs and were not getting their needs met. Now, they receive their species favorite, freeze-dried blood worms at least once a week. Other times, the loaches receive bug bites designed for bottom feeders. It is still important to watch out for overfeeding, but underfeeding can result in stunted growth and starvation.
Personality
I like to call my loaches, my buffer fish. They are always rummaging around or bumping into other fish without a care in the world. This frequent activity is perfect for breaking up any aggression levels that may be felt by the other tank inhabitants. Keep in mind though, certain species of fish prefer quieter calmer tanks and the bustling nature of the dojo loach might cause the other species to lash out or become even more recluse. Because of this, I do NOT recommend keeping dojo loaches with particularly small fish like celestial pearl danios. It is also important to know that snails and shrimp will become food for this hungry boy.
Conclusion
These loaches are fun exciting additions but come with many limiting factors. Their temperature preferences, bioload, goldfish-like curiosity, and size can ward many aquarists away. If these things don't bother you, their rambunctious behavior, pet like personality, and adorable fins will make a perfect match for any aquarium.
Thanks for reading fish tank keepers,
I will see you all next Monday!
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