Fin's Fish Guide
The Dala stone loach (Triplophysa dalaica) is a freshwater fish of the family Nemacheilidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Dala stone loach is a small stone loach (Nemacheilidae) from cool, flowing waters of northern China and the Mongolian plateau. The species grows to about 7 cm and has an elongate, sparsely scaled, brown-mottled body with three pairs of barbels around the inferior mouth. As a bottom-dweller it shelters among stones and gravel of mountain streams and searches for insect larvae, small crustaceans and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dala stone loach?
The Dala stone loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Sparsely scaled body and three pairs of barbels; mountain-stream loach
Where does the Dala stone loach live?
The Dala stone loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northern China and Mongolia
How big does the Dala stone loach get?
The Dala stone loach grows to a maximum of about 7 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Dala stone loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Dala 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.
Is the Dala stone loach edible?
The Dala stone loach is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Triplophysa
More from the family Nemacheilidae
Want the complete picture on the Dala stone loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dala stone loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.