The Tibetan stone loach (Triplophysa stoliczkai) is a fish of the family Nemacheilidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The Tibetan stone loach is a stone loach (Nemacheilidae) from cold, fast-flowing waters of the Tibetan Plateau and Central Asia, up to high altitude. The species grows to about 16 cm and has an elongate, sparsely scaled, brown-mottled body with three pairs of barbels around the inferior mouth. As a bottom-dweller it shelters among stones and gravel and searches for insect larvae, small crustaceans and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tibetan stone loach?
The Tibetan stone loach is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Sparsely scaled body and three pairs of barbels; highland loach
Where does the Tibetan stone loach live?
The Tibetan stone loach is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Central Asia (Tibetan Plateau)
How big does the Tibetan stone loach get?
The Tibetan stone loach grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Tibetan stone loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Tibetan stone 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 Tibetan stone loach edible?
The Tibetan stone loach is not usually eaten.

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

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