Fin's Fish Guide
The Italian golden loach (Sabanejewia larvata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 9 cm.
The species is endemic to the fresh water of northern Italy (the Po Plain) and adjacent Adriatic river basins, on sandy and gravel bottoms of slow to moderately flowing rivers and canals.
Description
The italian golden loach is a small, slender loach of the family Cobitidae reaching about 9 cm. The golden-yellow to beige body bears a row of dark blotches along the flank; barbels surround the inferior mouth, and beneath each eye sits a small, erectile spine, characteristic of the true spined loaches. The species is endemic to the fresh water of northern Italy (the Po plain) and adjacent Adriatic drainages, on sand and gravel bottoms of slow to moderately flowing rivers and canals. By day it often lies half-buried among the grains; mainly at night it sifts insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms from the bottom. In spring it spawns among gravel and water plants. Because of its small size and hidden lifestyle it is rarely noticed and has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Italian golden loach?
The Italian golden loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Slender, golden small loach with a row of dark blotches along the flank; beneath each eye a small, erectile spine, typical of the true spined loaches.
Where does the Italian golden loach live?
The Italian golden loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. The species is endemic to the fresh water of northern Italy (the Po Plain) and adjacent Adriatic river basins, on sandy and gravel bottoms of slow to moderately flowing rivers and canals.
How big does the Italian golden loach get?
The Italian golden loach grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Italian golden loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Italian golden loach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Italian golden loach edible?
The Italian golden loach is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Italian golden loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Italian golden 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 Sabanejewia
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Italian golden loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Italian golden loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.