Spined Loach (Cobitis taenia) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 60-75°F. A slender, speckled sand-burrowing loach from cool streams. It does best in an unheated or cool tank with fine sand to dive into, plenty of oxygen and no sharp gravel.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Cobitis taenia |
|---|---|
| Family | Cobitidae |
| Origin | Europe and northern Asia |
| Adult size | 3-4 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 60-75°F |
| pH | 6.5-8.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Social behavior | Groups of 4+ |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen foods, live worms |
| Typical lifespan | 5-8 years |
Quick tips
- Use fine sand, not coarse gravel.
- Avoid warm water.
- Keep a group of four or more.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi