Species profile
Horseface Loach
Acantopsis dialuzona
Peaceful
Moderate care
300 L minimum aquarium
15–20 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A four-foot aquarium is an absolute specialist-source minimum even for smaller specimens.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
3–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Small invertebrates
Bioload factor
1.5
Peaceful social loach that often forms loose aggregations. Extremely capable jumper; secure all openings.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Acantopsis dialuzona
Native range
South-East Asia across major river systems; widely distributed in suitable sandy river habitats.
Natural habitat
Sand is essential for normal burying behaviour. Provide a 120 cm+ aquarium, open sandy areas, rounded structure, good current and high oxygen.
Diet & feeding
Sifts sand for small invertebrates and organic material; provide sinking foods and frozen/live benthic foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
External sexual differences are subtle; mature females may be fuller-bodied.
Breeding
No dependable routine home-aquarium breeding method is established.