The Striped loach (Traccatichthys taeniatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Nemacheilidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The striped loach is a small loach from fresh water of southern China and northern Vietnam. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a slender, elongate body with a clear dark longitudinal stripe along the flank. With its barbels it searches the bottom of clear streams for insect larvae, small crustaceans and aufwuchs. The fish is harmless to humans and occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striped loach?
The Striped loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender body with a dark longitudinal stripe; bottom-foraging loach
Where does the Striped loach live?
The Striped loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern China and northern Vietnam
How big does the Striped loach get?
The Striped loach grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Striped loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Striped 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 Striped loach edible?
The Striped loach is not usually eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Traccatichthys
More from the family Nemacheilidae

Want the complete picture on the Striped loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striped loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.