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Dwarf Chain Loach

Ambastaia sidthimunki
Bottom Dwellers
Peaceful

Quick Guide

Temperature

25 - 30°C

pH

6 - 7.5

Hardness

5 - 12 dGH

Max Size

6.0 cm

Min. School

6

Min. Tank

75 L

AI Generated Notes

The Dwarf Chain Loach (Ambastaia sidthimunki), a captivating and diminutive species, is a true gem for any community aquarium. Reaching a maximum size of around 2-2.5 inches, these active and engaging bottom-dwellers are best known for their distinctive chain-link pattern of dark spots on a golden-yellow to silver body, making them easily identifiable. They are highly social fish and absolutely thrive in groups of six or more, exhibiting fascinating schooling behaviors as they dart around the lower levels of the tank. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Dwarf Chain Loaches are highly valued for their voracious appetite for pest snails, making them a natural and effective solution for snail control without resorting to chemicals. They require a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots among rocks, driftwood, and dense vegetation, as well as a soft, sandy substrate to protect their delicate barbels. Provide pristine, well-oxygenated water with a moderate current and stable parameters (pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 75-82°F). Their peaceful nature makes them excellent tank mates for a wide variety of small to medium-sized, non-aggressive community fish.

Great for snail control.