Fin's Fish Guide
The Kucuk Menderes spined loach (Cobitis fahirae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Kucuk Menderes spined loach is a small loach endemic to fresh water of western Turkey. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed body with a row of dark blotches along the flank, typical of the spined loaches. Below the eye it bears a small, erectile spine. As a bottom-dweller it roots in sand and mud of rivers and streams for small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Kucuk Menderes spined loach?
The Kucuk Menderes spined loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small erectile spine beneath the eye; roots in sand for invertebrates
Where does the Kucuk Menderes spined loach live?
The Kucuk Menderes spined loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Turkey
How big does the Kucuk Menderes spined loach get?
The Kucuk Menderes spined loach grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Kucuk Menderes spined loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Kucuk Menderes spined 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 Kucuk Menderes spined loach edible?
The Kucuk Menderes spined loach is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cobitis
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Kucuk Menderes spined loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Kucuk Menderes spined loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.