Fin's Fish Guide
The Altai stone loach (Barbatula altayensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Nemacheilidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Altai stone loach is a stone loach (Nemacheilidae) from cold, clear fresh water of the Altai Mountains in Central Asia. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, brown-speckled body without obvious scales and small barbels around the mouth. As a bottom-dweller it lives among gravel and stones of fast-flowing mountain rivers and snaps at insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Altai stone loach?
The Altai stone loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Altai stone loach live?
The Altai stone loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China
How big does the Altai stone loach get?
The Altai stone loach grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Altai stone loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Altai stone loach is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Barbatula
More from the family Nemacheilidae
Want the complete picture on the Altai stone loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Altai stone loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.