Leopard Kuhli Loach

Pangio shelfordii

Leopard Kuhli Loach is a peaceful bottom-dwelling fish. Keep in a loose group of 6+.

PeacefulBottom dwellerKeep in a loose group of 6+Intermediate

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Quick facts

Adult size: ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm)
Aquarium size: 14 US gal (54 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length
Care level: Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming zone: Bottom dweller
Temperature: 70–79°F (21–26°C)
pH: 4–7
GH: 0–8 dGH
Diet: Omnivore
Lifespan: up to 10 years
Group behavior: Keep in a loose group of 6+

Care requirements

Care level: Intermediate.

Lifespan: up to 10 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 14 US gal (54 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 21–26 °C, pH 4–7, GH 0–8 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Leopard Kuhli Loach is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the bottom area, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Leopard Kuhli Loach should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Provide sinking foods and small live/frozen invertebrates; ensure timid individuals receive food at the substrate.

Before adding this fish

Plan for an aquarium of 14 US gal (54 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length.
Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
Keep in a loose group of 6+.
Offer a varied diet suited to this species’ documented feeding habits.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Indonesia.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

African Butterfly Cichlid Anomalochromis thomasi Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm) 73–81°F (23–27°C) Barito Loach Kapuasia falaris Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate 2.4–3.1" (6–8 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Adolfos Catfish Hoplisoma adolfoi Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 75–79°F (24–26°C) Agassizs Corydoras Brochis agassizii Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Intermediate ≤ 2.8" (≤ 7 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) Amanda Jane Corydoras Brochis amandajanea Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.6" (≤ 6.5 cm) 73–81°F (23–27°C) Annie’s Goby Stiphodon annieae Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.2" (≤ 3 cm) 64–75°F (18–24°C)

FAQ

How large does Leopard Kuhli Loach get?

Leopard Kuhli Loach reaches ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm).

What aquarium size does Leopard Kuhli Loach need?

Use an aquarium of at least 14 US gal (54 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length.

Is Leopard Kuhli Loach peaceful?

Yes. Leopard Kuhli Loach is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Leopard Kuhli Loach?

Keep it between 21 to 26 °C.

Should Leopard Kuhli Loach be kept alone or in a group?

Leopard Kuhli Loach: Keep in a loose group of 6+.