Yasuhikotakia morleti

Origin

Southeast Asia — Thailand, Cambodia and Laos

Adult Size

8–10 cm (3–4 in)

Recommended Tank Size

100 L (25 gal) or larger

Temperature

24–28°C (75–82°F)

pH

6.0–7.5

Behavior

Active • Social • Semi-aggressive

A very active loach with a strong social hierarchy. Best maintained in groups of 5 or more with plenty of caves, driftwood and hiding places. Keeping too few can increase aggression toward both conspecifics and other fish.

Diet

Omnivore

Readily accepts:

• Sinking pellets and wafers
• Frozen foods
• Live foods
• Insect larvae
• Small crustaceans
• Snails

Difficulty Level

●●●○○

Intermediate

Did You Know?

The Chipmunk Loach gets its common name from the dark horizontal stripe running along its body. Like many loaches, it can also produce audible clicking sounds, particularly while feeding or interacting with other members of its group.

Ideal Water Parameters

• GH: 2–12
• KH: 1–8
• Flow: Moderate
• Oxygenation: Good
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
• Group Size: 5+ individuals
• Hiding Places: Essential

Compatibility

✅ Medium-sized Rasboras
✅ Barbs
✅ Danios
✅ Peaceful, robust community fish
✅ Other compatible loaches

⚠️ May nip fins or harass slow-moving fish
⚠️ Not recommended with ornamental snails
⚠️ Avoid keeping individually or in very small groups

Why This Species Is Special

• Distinctive dark lateral stripe
• Extremely active and entertaining
• Fascinating social hierarchy
• Known to consume small snails
• Excellent choice for larger, active community aquariums

The Chipmunk Loach is a lively and charismatic species best suited to aquarists who can provide a proper social group and plenty of structure. Its energetic personality makes it a fascinating fish to observe.