What size tank do dojo loaches need?
At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 3. The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Misgurnus anguillicaudatus.
How many dojo loaches in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if dojo loaches are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
| Tank | How many dojo loaches |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small |
| 10 gallon | Too small |
| 20 gallon long | Too small |
| 29 gallon | Too small |
| 40 gallon breeder | Too small |
| 55 gallon | 3 |
| 75 gallon | up to 4 |
| 125 gallon | up to 6 |
Check dojo loaches against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- An escape artist: cover every gap in the lid.
- Keep at least 3. In smaller numbers they are stressed, or one gets picked on.
- This is a jumper. Use a lid with no gaps.
- It prefers cool water. Do not mix it with tropical fish that need a heater.
Tank mates for dojo loaches
These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.
Poor matches
- Betta: Their temperature ranges barely overlap: Dojo loach likes 59–77 °F (15–25 °C), Betta likes 75–82 °F (24–28 °C).
- Guppy: Dojo loach (about 8 in) can eat guppy (about 2 in).
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as dojo loach.
Questions and answers
What size tank do dojo loaches need?
At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 3. The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many dojo loaches should be kept together?
At least 3. Dojo loaches are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.
Can dojo loaches live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Dojo loach needs at least 55 gallons (208 liters), and grows to 8 in (20 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.
What temperature do dojo loaches need?
59–77 °F (15–25 °C), with a pH of 6.5–8. In a normal room that usually means no heater.
Can dojo loaches live with a betta?
It is not a good match. Their temperature ranges barely overlap: Dojo loach likes 59–77 °F (15–25 °C), Betta likes 75–82 °F (24–28 °C).
More fish
- Blood parrot cichlid
- Flowerhorn
- Julii corydoras
- Zebra loach
- Dwarf chain loach
- Chinese algae eater
- All 118 species
Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.