Fin's Fish Guide
The Angora loach (Oxynoemacheilus angorae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Nemacheilidae that grows up to 9 cm.
The Near East, in streams and rivers of Anatolia (Turkey) and surrounding river basins.
Description
Oxynoemacheilus angorae is a small stone loach (family Nemacheilidae) of the Near East. The species reaches about 9 cm and has an elongate, brownish body with a mottled pattern and barbels around the downward-directed mouth. It lives on the bottom of streams and rivers in Anatolia and surrounding drainages and feeds on small bottom invertebrates and insect larvae. Loaches are active mainly at dusk and night and hide by day among stones and gravel. Because of its small size the species is of no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Angora loach?
The Angora loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Small bottom-dwelling stone loach with barbels; shelters during the day among stones and gravel.
Where does the Angora loach live?
The Angora loach lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. The Near East, in streams and rivers of Anatolia (Turkey) and surrounding river basins.
How big does the Angora loach get?
The Angora loach grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Angora loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Angora loach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Angora loach edible?
The Angora loach is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oxynoemacheilus
More from the family Nemacheilidae
Want the complete picture on the Angora loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angora loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.