Panda Loach (Yaoshania pachychilus) – (3-3.5 cm)

📦 Description

The Panda Loach is a rare and stunning hillstream loach named for its juvenile black-and-white “panda” patterning, which transitions into gold-and-black reticulated markings as it matures. This species originates from fast-flowing, oxygen-rich mountain streams in southern China. Panda Loaches are peaceful, highly social bottom dwellers that graze natural algae and biofilm. They are active, curious, and become more confident when kept in groups.

🧰 Care Instructions

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 g (75 L) for a small group; larger footprint preferred for stability.

• Water Flow & Oxygen: Requires strong flow (10–15× turnover per hour) and high dissolved oxygen.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: ideal 64–72 °F (18–22 °C), tolerates up to ~75 °F

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–15 °dGH)

• Substrate & Decor: Smooth sand or fine gravel; provide rounded stones, driftwood, and plants to encourage biofilm growth and offer shelter.

• Diet: Naturally grazes on biofilm and algae. Supplement with algae wafers, spirulina sinking pellets, blanched vegetables (like spinach or zucchini), and occasional live/frozen foods (daphnia, bloodworms).

• Social Behavior: Shoaling species—keep at least five individuals for natural behavior and reduced stress.

• Maintenance: Weekly partial water changes (20–30%) and stable water conditions are essential. Retain grazing surfaces; avoid over-cleaning algae. Sensitive to poor water quality.