Banded Kuhli Loach

(2 customer reviews)

£2.99

4-5cm

Common Name: Banded Kuhli Loach

Latin name: Pangio kuhlii

Synonyms: Acanthophthalmus kuhlii

Tank Bred: Yes. Banded Kuhli Loaches are commercially bred in large numbers for the aquarium trade.

Distribution: Banded Kuhli Loaches are native to Southeast Asia, specifically to the islands of Java, Borneo, and Sumatra.

Max size: Banded Kuhli Loaches typically grow to around 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) in length.

Lifespan: With proper care, Banded Kuhli Loaches can live for up to 10 years in captivity.

Temperature range: 75-86°F (24-30°C)

pH Range: 5.5-7.5

KH Range: 1-10 dKH

Care level: Banded Kuhli Loaches require moderate care. They are hardy fish, but they do have specific requirements that must be met to keep them healthy.

Lighting Preference: Banded Kuhli Loaches prefer low lighting or subdued lighting. They will appreciate plenty of hiding places such as plants, driftwood, and rocks.

Suitable for planted tanks: Yes, Banded Kuhli Loaches can be kept in planted tanks as long as there are enough hiding places, and the plants are not too delicate.

Preferred food: Banded Kuhli Loaches are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. They should be fed a balanced diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen or live foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.

Behaviour: Banded Kuhli Loaches are peaceful fish that can be kept with other non-aggressive species. They are also nocturnal and will spend much of the day hiding in caves, under rocks, or in other hiding places.

Discoverer: Banded Kuhli Loaches were first described by the German naturalist Heinrich Kuhl in 1820.

Interesting Facts: Banded Kuhli Loaches are known for their unique and distinctive appearance, with horizontal stripes running the length of their body. They are also bottom dwellers, and their long, slender bodies allow them to wriggle into tight spaces and burrow into the substrate. Banded Kuhli Loaches are delicate fish, and care should be taken to keep their water parameters stable and free of toxins.

able tank mates include other small tetras, rasboras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids.

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DRY GOODS

Aquarium plants can be shipped under the same shipping rules as dry goods.

Free shipping on orders over £50 (may exclude some aquariums)  Geographical restrictions may apply

LIVESTOCK = Fish, Critters and Corals

Minimum order value £30Delivery charge £19.99. Delivery days Are Varied At The Moment.  We will contact you to confirm your delivery day. Some geographical restrictions apply See shipping

Aquarium Plants: Are shipped the same as and can be mixed with Dry goods *Free shipping on orders over £50 or £6.99 for orders under £50. Some geographical restrictions may apply.

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Banded Kuhli Loaches are slender, eel-like fish that have a unique and distinctive appearance. They have a long, thin body that is usually around 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) in length when fully grown. The body is banded with alternating light and dark brown stripes, giving them their common name. The head is small and pointed, with two pairs of small barbels around the mouth. The eyes are relatively small and are positioned high up on the head.

Their body is scaleless and has a very smooth and slippery texture, which makes them well-suited to their burrowing behaviour. They have a spine-like structure located underneath their eyes, which is used for burrowing into the substrate and hiding.

Banded Kuhli Loaches have a unique way of swimming, which is different from other types of fish. They tend to swim in a snake-like pattern, weaving in and out of objects in the tank. They are primarily nocturnal, which means that they are most active at night. During the day, they tend to hide in caves, under rocks, or in the substrate.

Banded Kuhli Loaches Natural Habitat

From the viewpoint of a Banded Kuhli Loach, their natural habitat would consist of slow-moving or still waters such as ponds, swamps, marshes, and streams that are surrounded by vegetation. The bottom of the waterway would be lined with a layer of mud, sand, and fine gravel, which provides a substrate for them to burrow and hide in.

In these habitats, the water is usually stained brown due to the presence of tannins from decaying plant material. This tannin-stained water helps to mimic their natural environment and makes them feel more comfortable and secure. The water is also typically warm and slightly acidic, with a temperature range of 75°F to 86°F (24°C to 30°C) and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.

Keeping Banded Kuhli Loaches Healthy

Banded Kuhli Loaches are generally considered to be a relatively easy fish to keep, but they are a bit on the delicate side and can be sensitive to water parameters. They require a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions and a pH range of 6.0-7.0. They prefer soft to moderately hard water with a temperature range of 75-86°F (24-30°C).

Special Requirements and Feeding

Banded Kuhli Loaches are bottom-dwelling fish and require a soft substrate to burrow in. They also need plenty of hiding places in the form of plants, rocks, and driftwood. They are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including sinking pellets, frozen or live brine shrimp, bloodworms, and other small foods.

How Many Should I Keep?

Banded Kuhli Loaches are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least 5-6 individuals. They are peaceful and should not be housed with aggressive fish.

Lighting Preference

Banded Kuhli Loaches do not have any special lighting requirements and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions.

Suitable Tank Mates Banded Kuhli Loaches are peaceful and should be housed with other peaceful community fish. Good tank mates include other small bottom-dwelling fish, such as Corydoras catfish, small tetras, and dwarf gourami’s.

Breeding Kuhli Loaches

Breeding Banded Kuhli Loaches can be challenging, as they require specific conditions to spawn successfully. Here are some things to keep in mind if you want to breed these fish:

  • Breeding typically occurs in pairs or small groups of one male and one or two females.
  • To encourage breeding, provide a separate breeding tank that is densely planted with fine-leaved plants like java moss or riccia, as well as smooth rocks and driftwood.
  • The water in the breeding tank should be soft and acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 and a temperature around 77°F (25°C).
  • Once a pair has formed and the female has become gravid, she will lay a small clutch of eggs on the plants or rocks. The male will then fertilize the eggs.
  • After fertilization, remove the adults from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs or fry.
  • The eggs will hatch in about three days, and the fry will become free-swimming after another three to four days.
  • Feed the fry small amounts of newly hatched brine shrimp or powdered fry food several times a day.
  • Keep the water in the breeding tank clean by performing frequent water changes and vacuuming the substrate regularly.
  • It is important to note that Banded Kuhli Loaches are not known to breed easily in captivity, and even under optimal conditions, success can be rare.

If you are looking to breed Banded Kuhli Loaches, be prepared for a challenging but rewarding experience

Sexing Banded Kuhli Loaches – Sexual Dimorphism

Male Banded Kuhli Loaches are generally slimmer and have a more pointed anal fin than females. However, sexual dimorphism can be difficult to discern in this species.

Lifespan Banded Kuhli Loaches can live for up to 10 years in ideal conditions.

Distribution Banded Kuhli Loaches  are found in the wild in Southeast Asia.

Summary The Banded Kuhli Loach is a peaceful bottom-dwelling fish that is relatively easy to care for but can be sensitive to water parameters. They require a soft substrate, plenty of hiding places, and a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. Kuhli Loaches are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least 5-6 individuals. They are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, and make good tank mates with other peaceful community fish.

2 reviews for Banded Kuhli Loach

  1. Mr David John Gautrey (verified owner)

    Arrived healthy and very lively.
    Added to the tank after acclimatizing, went zooming off behind the wood and plants.
    I’ve had 2 sightings of a kuhli loach since, I’m sure they are fine.

  2. Raymond Ward (verified owner)

    Bought 10 and they are all healthy and doing great. They are very active and love the mini bloodworm I feed them. Great packaging and super service. Many thanks

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Dry Goods Delivery.

The store has provided information regarding their order dispatch and estimated delivery times. Here are the key details:

  1. Dispatch Timeframe: Orders placed before 2pm will be dispatched on the same day. Orders placed after 2pm will be dispatched on the next working day.
  2. Delivery Date and Time Guarantee: While the store aims to dispatch orders promptly, they cannot guarantee a specific delivery date and time. As the delivery process relies on couriers, there may be factors beyond their control that could affect the delivery timeframe.
  3. 1st Class Mail: For orders sent via 1st Class mail, the aim is to have them delivered on the next working day after dispatch.
  4. 2nd Class Mail: Orders sent via 2nd Class mail typically take approximately 2-3 working days for delivery after dispatch.
  5. APC Next Day Delivery: APC Next Day delivery is available for UK mainland postcodes. It is usually delivered on the next working day after dispatch. However, please note that items being delivered to more remote areas may require additional time for delivery.

It’s important to keep in mind that while the store strives to provide efficient delivery services, unforeseen circumstances or external factors could potentially impact delivery times. For further details or specific inquiries about delivery, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Livestock Delivery.

The store maintains specific policies regarding the delivery of livestock. Here are the key points:

  1. Licensed Livestock Courier: The store exclusively uses a licensed livestock courier for shipping fish and coral. This approach is chosen to ensure responsible and ethical transportation of the livestock.
  2. Livestock Shipping Fee: The livestock shipping fee charged to customers of £19.99 does not cover the true cost, and therefore, there is a minimum spend requirement of £30.00 before the option for livestock shipping becomes available.
  3. Pre-Arranged Delivery: The store never ships livestock without first arranging a suitable delivery day. Before dispatching the livestock, the store must confirm the agreed-upon delivery day with the customer.
  4. Saturday Delivery Confirmation: Customers who choose Saturday delivery must have their availability confirmed for the upcoming Saturday before the store sends out the livestock. This confirmation ensures that the livestock can be received promptly.
  5. Failure to wait for livestock: Not waiting for livestock, even if there is a reasonable delay, or cancelling an order after it has been dispatched will lead to you incurring charges for an emergency return to the base. Additionally, any losses of livestock will also be charged to you. Please be aware that the items you are ordering are living creatures – livestock. We kindly ask that you refrain from ordering livestock if you are unable to accommodate the possibility of a delayed delivery.

    These terms and conditions are a fundamental aspect of our policy. Our primary goal is to dissuade individuals who could react negatively to a delayed delivery and subsequently request order cancellations. It is of utmost importance to underscore that your order pertains to living creatures, not mere inanimate objects. In the event of an occasional delay, it is crucial that you respond in a rational and responsible manner, taking into account the welfare of the livestock. We kindly request that you refrain from placing an order for livestock if you tend to react strongly to such situations. By proceeding with the order of livestock, you indicate your acceptance and agreement to abide by these specified terms and conditions.

  6. Signature Requirement: Livestock deliveries require a signature upon receipt and cannot be left in a safe location. This precaution ensures proper handling and the well-being of the livestock.
  7. Geographic Restrictions: The courier has strict geographic restrictions for livestock deliveries. Unfortunately, deliveries to Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly, Channel Islands, and certain Scottish offshore postcodes may not be possible. Customers are encouraged to contact the store via email to confirm if livestock delivery is available in their area.
  8. Minimum Order Value and Order Cancellations: The store has a minimum order value of £30 for livestock shipping. Additionally, the store reserves the right to cancel orders that are deemed high-risk or involve a high number of single tropical freshwater fish species.

It is essential for customers to familiarize themselves with these policies before making a purchase. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or reach out to the store directly for clarification.

Livestock Geographical Exemptions.

The store has specific geographical exemptions for livestock deliveries. Here is a list of the areas and postcodes where livestock delivery is not available:

  1. Islands: Livestock cannot be delivered to the Shetlands, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man.
  2. Postcodes: Livestock delivery is not available to the following postcodes:
  • AB30 to AB39, AB41 to AB45, AB51 to AB56
  • DD8 to DD10
  • BT all
  • DG3 to DG9, DG12 to DG14
  • KA18 to KA19, KA26, KA29 to KA30
  • HS all
  • IM all
  • JE all
  • ZE all
  • KW15 to KW17
  • TD9
  • FK17 to FK21
  • GY all
  • KA26, to KA28
  • PA20 to PA38, PA41 to PA49, PA60 to PA61, PA76 to PA78
  • TR21, to TR25
  • PH3 to PH26, PH30 to PH44
  • IV all

Customers residing in these areas should be aware that livestock delivery is not available to their location.

We can ship livestock to the Isle of Wight, this area is subject to a surcharge.

For further information or specific inquiries about livestock delivery to a particular area, customers are advised to contact the store directly for clarification.

Cancellation.

According to the store’s policy, customers have the right to cancel an order within 14 working days of receiving the goods. To initiate the cancellation, the goods must be returned to the store in new and unused condition, adhering to their Returns Policy.

Important points regarding the return process are as follows:

  1. Return Condition: The goods must be returned in new and unused condition, as originally received. It is important to ensure that the goods are in the same condition as when they were sent out.
  2. Return Timeframe: The goods must be received by the store within 21 days of notifying them about the cancellation. During this time, customers are responsible for any loss or damage that may occur during the return shipping process.
  3. Refund Process: Once the store receives the goods in new and unused condition, they will initiate the refund process. The purchase price will be refunded to the customer.
  4. Return Condition Inspection: If the returned goods arrive in a condition that is less than what they were sent out in, the store reserves the right to return the goods to the customer, and no refund will be processed.

It is essential for customers to carefully review the store’s Returns Policy and follow the specified procedures to ensure a smooth and successful return and refund process. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Returns.

According to the store’s return policy, the following guidelines should be followed for returning goods:

  1. Use Returns Form: Customers need to use the store’s provided returns form to initiate the return process. This form helps the store acknowledge that the goods are being sent back.
  2. Return for Testing: If the goods are being returned for testing, the customer is responsible for covering the return shipping expenses.
  3. Refund of Postage Fees: The store will only refund postage fees if the order arrives damaged or becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of purchase. Proof of posting is important, and customers should ensure the goods are well-packed and obtain proof of posting as the goods remain their responsibility until received by the store.
  4. Refund of Postage Costs for Replacement: If goods are being returned within 7 days of purchase under the Replacement Policy, the store can refund postage costs. However, the customer needs to agree on a delivery service with the store in advance, and only standard or tracked shipping fees will be refunded. The store cannot refund the cost of any special delivery service.
  5. Non-Refundable Postage: Postage costs for goods returned for any other reason than those mentioned above are non-refundable. The store reserves the right to deduct the original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Mistaken Purchases: If a customer has made a mistake in their purchase, they need to return the goods to the store. The customer is responsible for the return shipping costs in such cases.

It is important for customers to carefully follow the store’s return procedures and terms and conditions. For further details or specific inquiries, customers should refer to the store’s website or contact the store directly.

Replacements

If customers receive faulty goods, the following guidelines apply according to the store’s policy:

  1. Notification of Faulty Goods: Customers must notify the store within 7 working days if they receive faulty goods. This notification should be made as soon as possible.
  2. Replacement Parts: If possible, the store will dispatch replacement parts for the faulty goods.
  3. Return of Goods: If replacement parts are not possible, the store may request customers to return the faulty goods in accordance with their Returns Policy. The specific return procedures and conditions should be followed.
  4. Verification of Damage: Once the store receives the returned goods, they will verify the damage. If the damage is confirmed, the store will supply the required replacements.
  5. Return Postage Costs: If the goods returned to the store are found to be in good working order, the store is not able to refund the return postage costs. Additionally, the store reserves the right to deduct their original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Consequential Loss or Damage: The store cannot take responsibility for any consequential loss or damage that arises directly or indirectly from the goods supplied.

Customers should carefully review and adhere to the store’s Returns Policy and procedures for returning faulty goods. For further clarification or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Manufacturer’s Guarantees

The store works in collaboration with manufacturers to ensure that their guarantees are honored, and they make their best efforts to resolve issues within the warranty period. The following guidelines apply to refunds and replacements:

  1. Postage Costs under Manufacturer’s Guarantee: Postage costs can only be refunded if the goods are returned to the store within 7 days of the original purchase, as per the manufacturer’s guarantee.
  2. Refund of Postage Costs for Faulty Goods: The store will refund postage costs for guarantee/warranty returns only if the product becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of receipt.
  3. Replacements with Manufacturer Authorization: Replacements, whether parts or goods, can only be offered when authorized by the manufacturer. Customers should contact the store for further guidance in such cases.
  4. Prior Approval for Returns: Goods should not be returned to the store without prior approval. Customers need to contact the store and obtain approval before returning any items.
  5. Replacement of Glass or Ceramic Items: Glass or ceramic items can only be replaced if the store is notified within 48 hours of receiving the delivery.
  6. Replacement of Glass Bulbs/Tubes: Glass bulbs or tubes can only be replaced if they become faulty within 14 days.

Customers should note and adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution of any issues with their purchased items. For specific inquiries or further information, customers are advised to refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Breakages

According to the store’s policy, customers have the following responsibilities regarding breakages:

  1. Checking Goods on Arrival: It is the customer’s responsibility to thoroughly check the goods upon arrival for any damage. This should be done before signing for the parcel. If the parcel appears damaged, it is advised not to sign for it.
  2. Reporting Breakages: Any breakages or damages must be reported to the store within 48 hours of receiving the goods. It is important to promptly notify the store to initiate the resolution process.

By carefully inspecting the goods upon arrival and reporting any breakages within the specified timeframe, customers can ensure that appropriate actions are taken to address the issue. For specific instructions on reporting breakages or further information, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.