Species profile
Black Kuhli Loach
Pangio oblonga
Peaceful
Easy care
80 L minimum aquarium
7–10 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A true Pangio loach rather than an algae eater. Its secretive behaviour is normal; social grouping, sand and dense cover matter more than high current.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–27 °C
pH
4–7
GH
1–10 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1
Peaceful, nocturnal/crepuscular and strongly social. Keep at least six and provide many tight hiding places. A secure lid is sensible because Pangio can enter filter gaps and escape.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
5–10 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
80 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pangio oblonga
Alternative names
Black Kuhli Loach, Java Loach, Cinnamon Loach
Native range
South-east Asia, including the Malay Peninsula and Greater Sunda region.
Natural habitat
Leaf-littered forest streams and quiet margins. Use fine sand, abundant cover, wood/roots and leaf litter with dim lighting. Avoid sharp gravel because these loaches burrow.
Diet & feeding
Bottom-feeding micro-predator/omnivore. Feed small sinking foods plus worms, insect larvae and crustacean-based frozen foods. Ensure food reaches them after lights dim.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females become noticeably fuller, especially when gravid; sexing slender immature fish is unreliable.
Breeding
Aquarium spawning is uncommon and often opportunistic. Eggs may be deposited among dense vegetation; adults do not provide brood care.