Fin's Fish Guide
The Burmese loach (Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Burmese loach is a small loach from fresh water of Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Thailand. The species grows to about 9 cm and has an elongate, yellowish-brown body with a row of dark blotches along the flank and barbels around the mouth. Beneath each eye it bears an erectile spine. As a bottom-dweller it roots through sand and mud bottoms of rivers and rice fields for small invertebrates and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Burmese loach?
The Burmese loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Erectile eye spine and barbels; bottom-rooting loach
Where does the Burmese loach live?
The Burmese loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Burmese loach get?
The Burmese loach grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Burmese loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Burmese 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.
Is the Burmese loach edible?
The Burmese loach is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lepidocephalichthys
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Burmese loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Burmese loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.