Dwarf Chain Loach: Tank Size, Tank Mates & How Many to Keep

What size tank do dwarf chain loaches need?

At least 20 gallons (76 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 20 gallon high. 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: Ambastaia sidthimunki.

How many dwarf chain loaches in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if dwarf chain loaches are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Tank	How many dwarf chain loaches
5 gallon	Too small
10 gallon	Too small
20 gallon long	up to 9
29 gallon	up to 13
40 gallon breeder	up to 19
55 gallon	up to 26
75 gallon	up to 35
125 gallon	up to 59

Check dwarf chain loaches against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

Keep at least 6. Alone or in twos and threes, dwarf chain loaches hide, stop eating well, or pick on each other.

Tank mates for dwarf chain 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

Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as dwarf chain loach.
Molly: They need different water: Dwarf chain loach likes a pH of 6–7.5, molly likes 7.5–8.5.

Questions and answers

What size tank do dwarf chain loaches need?

At least 20 gallons (76 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 20 gallon high. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many dwarf chain loaches should be kept together?

At least 6. Dwarf chain loaches are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.

Can dwarf chain loaches live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Dwarf chain loach needs at least 20 gallons (76 liters).

What temperature do dwarf chain loaches need?

75–82 °F (24–28 °C), with a pH of 6–7.5. In most homes that means a heater.

Can dwarf chain loaches live with a betta?

Usually, yes, in a tank of 20 gallons (76 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.

More fish

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.