Fin's Fish Guide
The Horseface loach (Acantopsis choirorhynchos) is a fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The horseface loach is a loach (Cobitidae) from Southeast Asia. The species has an elongate body with a conspicuously long, down-curved, horse-like snout and, as is typical of loaches, a small erectile spine below each eye. It lives bottom-bound in sandy rivers and streams and often buries itself until only the eyes show. With its snout it sifts small invertebrates from the sand. When handled, the eye spine can give a slight prick.
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. Long, horse-like snout; buries itself until only the eyes are visible, with an erectile eye spine.
Where does the Horseface loach live?
The Horseface loach is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia; sandy rivers and streams.
How big does the Horseface loach get?
The Horseface loach grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Horseface loach dangerous to humans?
The Horseface loach can cause injury; handle it with care. Below each eye is a small erectile spine that can give a slight prick when handled. Clean and disinfect any prick wound; otherwise harmless.
Is the Horseface loach edible?
The Horseface loach is rarely eaten.
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.
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.