Horseface Loach | Acantopsis sp.
Choose the aquarium for the adult animal and its companions. A mature filter and stable, species-appropriate water conditions are essential.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
Confirm the precise species and natural range with our aquatic team. |
| Adult size |
Confirm the adult size of the exact species before purchase. |
| Temperament |
Peaceful but may be shy; allow for adult size |
| Activity |
Use a consistent light/dark cycle with sheltered resting places. |
| Social needs |
Choose companions sharing its adult size, water conditions and behaviour. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
Confirm the exact species and a measured adult tank plan with our aquatic team before purchase. |
| Enclosure type |
Mature freshwater aquarium, unless a different water type is specified below. |
| Temperature |
Confirm the species-specific temperature before purchase. |
| Water chemistry |
; |
| Substrate |
Species-appropriate sand or smooth gravel; avoid sharp material around bottom-dwelling fish. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Fine sand for burrowing and generous bottom space |
Behaviour & Compatibility
Peaceful but may be shy; allow for adult size Check every proposed companion with our aquatic team and allow extra territory for breeding fish.
Feeding & Nutrition
Sinking omnivore food and suitable frozen invertebrates. Feed measured portions and remove leftovers to protect water quality. Feed measured portions rather than allowing food to accumulate; juveniles may need smaller, more frequent meals. Make sure bottom-dwelling or shy animals receive their share.
Routine Care
Check appetite, breathing, equipment and water temperature daily. Test water regularly; ammonia and nitrite must remain at zero. Make regular partial water changes using conditioned, temperature-matched water. Rinse biological filter media in removed tank water, preserving the filter bacteria.
Important Before Buying
Cycle the aquarium before collection. Confirm the current food and water conditions with our aquatic team and acclimatise gradually. Sale size is not adult size; stocking and filtration must account for the full-grown animal.
Representative species photograph: Alter welt, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Exact species of stock unconfirmed.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.
