Horseface loach (Acantopsis dialuzona) — 10-12cm

Overview

The Horseface loach (Acantopsis dialuzona) is a peaceful, sand-burying loach prized for its distinctive horse-like snout and fascinating behavior. Available for sale UK through Tropical Fish Co, this unusual bottom dweller is native to the swift streams of Southeast Asia and thrives in well-oxygenated aquariums with soft substrate and moderate to strong water flow. A must-have for experienced keepers who appreciate rare and specialized species.

Appearance

This loach reaches up to 15 cm in length and has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a uniquely shaped head that gives it a horse-like profile. The coloration is typically pale tan to brown with darker vertical bars and mottling that provide excellent camouflage against sandy substrates. The snout is long and pointed, ideal for probing sand and sifting through substrate in search of food. When resting, the fish often buries itself completely, leaving only its eyes and snout visible.

Natural Habitat

Acantopsis dialuzona inhabits clear, swift-flowing streams, rivers, and flooded fields across mainland and archipelagic Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Indonesia, and adjacent regions. These environments are characterized by clean, oxygen-rich water, sandy or fine gravel substrates, and moderate to strong current. In the wild, the loach feeds on small invertebrates and organic matter found in the substrate, remaining buried during the day and emerging to forage at night.

Aquarium Setup

Provide a spacious aquarium of at least 150 litres with a soft sand substrate—this is essential to prevent injury as the loach buries itself. Decorate with smooth rocks, driftwood, and caves to create hiding places and visual interest. Strong filtration and gentle to moderate water flow mimic the loach's natural riverine habitat. Dim lighting and plenty of cover help reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.

Water Parameters

Maintain warm, clean water between 24–30°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Excellent filtration and regular partial water changes are critical to keep oxygen levels high and waste products low. This species is sensitive to poor water quality and requires stable, well-maintained conditions. Avoid sudden parameter shifts and ensure the tank is fully cycled before introducing the loach.

Feeding

The Horseface loach is a carnivore, feeding primarily on small invertebrates in the wild. Offer sinking carnivore pellets, frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, tubifex, and other meaty foods. Feed after lights dim, as this loach is most active during low-light periods. Ensure food reaches the substrate, and avoid overfeeding, as uneaten food can degrade water quality rapidly in sand-substrate tanks.

Behaviour

Acantopsis dialuzona is a peaceful, nocturnal species that spends much of the day buried in sand with only its eyes and snout protruding. At dusk and during the night, it emerges to forage, probing the substrate with its elongated snout. This loach is shy and non-aggressive, preferring to avoid confrontation and spending time hidden or buried. It is best kept singly or in small groups if space permits, though it does not form tight social bonds.

Tank Mates

Ideal companions include peaceful midwater fish of similar size, such as small to medium rasboras, danios, tetras, and peaceful barbs. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species, large predatory fish, highly territorial bottom dwellers, very small fry, tiny shrimp, and fast, boisterous species that may outcompete the loach for food. Choose tankmates that appreciate similar warm, clean, well-oxygenated conditions.

Breeding

Captive breeding is uncommon and not well documented in home aquaria. Spawning likely requires excellent water quality, seasonal environmental cues (such as temperature and photoperiod changes), and a spacious tank with fine substrate and naturalistic conditions. Little is known about the reproductive habits of this species in captivity, and successful breeding reports remain rare.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co UK, we supply healthy, acclimated Acantopsis dialuzona loaches carefully selected for size, health, and vitality. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and conditioned before dispatch, ensuring you receive a robust specimen ready to thrive in your aquarium. With expert care advice, secure packaging, and a commitment to quality, we make adding this rare and fascinating loach to your collection straightforward and rewarding. Order today.