Fin's Fish Guide
The Horseface loach (Acantopsis dialuzona) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The horseface loach is an elongate loach (Cobitidae) from fresh water of Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, yellow-brown body with a row of dark blotches and a strikingly long, downcurved snout reminiscent of a horse's head. As a bottom-dweller it buries itself in sand up to the eyes by day and searches for small invertebrates and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans and is known from the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Horseface loach?
The Horseface loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Horseface loach live?
The Horseface loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Myanmar, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos and others
How big does the Horseface loach get?
The Horseface loach grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Horseface loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Horseface 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 Horseface loach edible?
Yes, the Horseface loach is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acantopsis
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Horseface loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Horseface loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.