Horseface loaches (Acantopsis) are popular and well-known aquarium fishes, but with 15-20 cm attainable final length (the record is even 25 cm) they become quite large and therefore need larger aquariums. Practically unknown to aquarists are the dwarf horseface loaches (Acanthopsoides), whose seven species grow to only 3.5-5.5 cm in length. The photographed specimens are approx. 4.5 cm long, thus to a large extent fully grown.
We could now import one of these species, which is probably Acanthopsoides robertsi. The species is native in Indonesia and Malaysia, where it is found in flowing waters with sandy bottoms. The behavior of the tiny fishes is similar to that of their larger cousins. They are peaceful, sociable animals that forage on sandy bottoms and sometimes burrow in when needed.
For our customers: the animals have code 360893 on our stock list. Please note that we only supply wholesale.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
