Horseface Loach

Horseface Loach (Acantopsis dialuzona) is a fascinating freshwater fish that was given their common name from their horse-shaped snout. With being also a burrower and a peaceful creature, this loach adds both personality and utility to aquariums by plowing the substrate and harassing problem species like snails. While not as showy as most other tropical fish, their bizarre shape and odd behavior patterns make them a suitable addition for advanced aquarists.

Origin of the Horseface Loach

The Southeast Asian Origin Horseface Loaches live in sandy bottoms, streams, and rivers. The Horseface Loach is a bottom dweller and they will be in sand for most of the time, but with their eyes poking out. The wild Horseface Loaches feed on small invertebrates and detritus and the aquarists must mimic this with a protein-based diet.

Temperament of the Horseface Loach

Horseface Loaches are timid and gentle. They prefer to be maintained in groups of 4–6, which reduces stress and provokes natural behavior. Though generally not aggressive, they will fight slower fish for bottom tank food.

Horseface Loach Compatibility with Other Fish

Horseface Loaches may be held in community aquaria with other peaceful fish such as:

1. Tetras, rasboras, and danios
2. Corydoras and other peaceful catfish
3. Dwarf gouramis
4. Other loaches such as Kuhli Loach

Do not keep them with:

1. Aggressive cichlids
2. Extremely small fish (risk of accidental predation)
3. Large predatory predators

Price Range of the Horseface Loach

The Horseface Loaches are moderately valued, generally costing between ₹300–₹800 ($4–$10) based on size. They keep their price low because they are relatively more readily available in the aquarium trade.