Fin's Fish Guide
The Common spiny loach (Lepidocephalichthys thermalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The common spiny loach is a loach (Cobitidae) from fresh water of South Asia, including India and Sri Lanka. The species has a slender, yellow-brown body with fine dark markings, barbels and a small, erectile spine below the eye. As a bottom-dweller it roots in soft sand and mud of slow-flowing streams, ponds and rice paddies in search of small invertebrates, larvae and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common spiny loach?
The Common spiny loach has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Common spiny loach live?
The Common spiny loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Sri Lanka, India
How big does the Common spiny loach get?
The Common spiny loach grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Common spiny loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Common spiny 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 Lepidocephalichthys
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Common spiny loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common spiny loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.