Black Kuhli Loach

Black Kuhli Loach - A Sleek, Eel-Like Scavenger for the Substrate

The Black Kuhli Loach has a distinctive, glossy eel-like body that lets it slip effortlessly through soft substrate and tangle among plant roots, emerging mostly after dark to scavenge for leftover food. Its smooth, dark colouration and unusual shape make it a fascinating addition to any peaceful community tank.

This is a shy, gentle species best kept in a group so its natural clustering behaviour can be observed, and it appreciates a soft sand substrate along with plenty of hiding spots such as caves and plant thickets. Being scaleless, care should be taken with certain medications.

At N8 Aquatics, our fish are carefully raised and conditioned to ensure healthy stock suited to home aquariums.

Species Snapshot

• Size Sold: Juvenile, 4-5 cm
• Adult Size: 8-10 cm
• Tank Size: 60 L minimum, keep in a group of 5 or more
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, mostly nocturnal scavenger
• Temperature: 24-28°C
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (scaleless — sensitive to some medications)

Ideal Habitat and Care

A soft sand substrate lets this species burrow naturally, and plenty of hiding spots such as caves, pipes and plant thickets help it feel secure during the day.

• Temperature: 24-28°C
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate
• Maintenance: Regular water changes; avoid medications containing copper or similar scaleless-sensitive compounds

Diet

As a nocturnal scavenger, this species cleans up leftover food while also accepting targeted feeding.

• Sinking pellets or wafers as a staple
• Frozen bloodworm for protein
• Sinking foods offered after lights out for best results

Compatibility

A peaceful, non-territorial species, it fits well into most calm community setups with other bottom dwellers.

Suitable tankmates include:

• Peaceful community fish
• Other bottom dwellers
• Corydoras and similarly gentle species

Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Why Buy From N8 Aquatics

• Carefully raised aquarium fish
• Healthy, well-conditioned stock
• Strong genetics and vibrant colouration
• Breeder support if you have questions

Pickup Information

N8 Aquatics currently operates as a local pickup-only breeder in Central Queensland.

Orders are collected by appointment after purchase confirmation.

Please ensure you are able to collect your fish before placing an order.

Important

All livestock sold by N8 Aquatics should be introduced to fully cycled aquariums suitable for the species being kept.

Please ensure your aquarium setup and tankmates are appropriate before purchasing.