Fin's Fish Guide
The Eightbarbel loach (Lefua costata) is a freshwater fish of the family Nemacheilidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The eightbarbel loach is a small stone loach (Nemacheilidae) from fresh water of East Asia, from China to Korea. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate, yellow-brown body with fine dark markings and eight barbels around the mouth. As a bottom-dweller it lives in slow-flowing streams, ponds and rice paddies and searches for small invertebrates, larvae and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eightbarbel loach?
The Eightbarbel loach has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Eightbarbel loach live?
The Eightbarbel loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Korea (South), Mongolia, Russia
How big does the Eightbarbel loach get?
The Eightbarbel loach grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Eightbarbel loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Eightbarbel 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lefua
More from the family Nemacheilidae
Want the complete picture on the Eightbarbel loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eightbarbel loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone