Sumo Loach
Schistura balteata
Sumo Loach is a bottom-dwelling fish.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm)
- Aquarium size
- 37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Temperament
- Semi-Aggressive
- Swimming zone
- Bottom dweller
- Temperature
- 72–79°F (22–26°C)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- GH
- 4–12 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 8 years
Care requirements
Care level: Intermediate.
Lifespan: up to 8 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 22–26 °C, pH 6–7.5, GH 4–12 dGH.
Temperament and compatibility
Sumo Loach needs careful companion choice because it can be territorial or semi-aggressive.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the bottom area, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Sumo Loach should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length.
- Choose other fish carefully around this temperament.
- Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Thailand, Myanmar.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Sumo Loach get?
Sumo Loach reaches ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm).
What aquarium size does Sumo Loach need?
Use an aquarium of at least 37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length.
Is Sumo Loach peaceful?
Sumo Loach needs more careful companion choice because the temperament data points toward boundaries, space, or similar-sized fish.
What temperature is suitable for Sumo Loach?
Keep it between 22 to 26 °C.