More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 160 litres / 42.27 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 8.5cm / 3.35inches |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
Behaviour:
Y. morleti can display aggressiveness towards tankmates, especially in smaller groups, and is best suited for larger community aquariums with robust fishes. This species tends to nip fins and harass other fish. They are known to coexist successfully with certain species like Devario, Rasbora, Puntius, and Danio. It is essential to maintain them in groups of at least 5 or 6 specimens to prevent aggressive behavior. Dominance battles can cause individuals to lose coloration, termed as "greying out," and they have been observed performing the "loachy dance" and "shadowing" behaviors.
Feeding and Diet:
Yasuhikotakia morleti are predominantly carnivorous but also consume vegetative matter and soft-leaved aquatic plants. A varied diet is crucial, including dried products, live or frozen bloodworm, Tubifex, and fresh fruits and vegetables. They are bold feeders once settled in an aquarium and may rise into midwater during feeding times. Care should be taken to offer a balanced diet, including homemade foods with natural ingredients bound with gelatin.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:
Breeding of Y. morleti in home aquariums is uncommon, likely due to their seasonal, migratory spawning habits in the wild. Sexually mature females are generally larger and fuller-bodied than males. Juveniles exhibit dark vertical bars on their flanks that fade with maturity, and during the breeding season, they migrate from tributaries to main river channels.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Skunk Loach is native to the lower Mekong River system in Cambodia, with recorded populations in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and certain drainages in Thailand. Their habitat includes standing and flowing waters, where they dwell among rocks, tree roots, and submerged objects. Seasonal migrations are a part of their life cycle, leading to their presence in various water bodies throughout the year.Commercial farming is a common source of these loaches in the aquarium trade.
Aquarium Setup:
A well-structured aquarium setup is essential for Y. morleti, with a preference for natural-style decor including sand or fine gravel substrate, rocks, driftwood, and plants like Java fern or Anubias. Adequate hiding spots should be provided as they enjoy exploring their environment. Water should be well-oxygenated, and regular maintenance with weekly water changes is necessary for their well-being.
The hardiness of Yasuhikotakia Morleti allows it to adapt to various water conditions, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5, temperature between 23-28°C, and moderate hardness levels of 36-215ppm.