Fin's Fish Guide
The Turkish spined loach (Cobitis turcica) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Turkish spined loach is a small loach from fresh water of Anatolia in Turkey. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, elongate body with a row of dark blotches along the flank and barbels around the mouth. Beneath each eye it bears an erectile spine. As a bottom-dweller it roots through sand and mud bottoms of clear streams and rivers for small invertebrates and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Turkish spined loach?
The Turkish spined loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Dark flank blotches and a folding eye spine; bottom-rooting spined loach
Where does the Turkish spined loach live?
The Turkish spined loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Anatolia (Turkey)
How big does the Turkish spined loach get?
The Turkish spined loach grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Turkish spined loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Turkish 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 Turkish spined loach edible?
The Turkish spined loach is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Turkish spined loach?
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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 Turkish spined loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Turkish spined loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.