Fin's Fish Guide
The Skunk loach (Yasuhikotakia morleti) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Skunk loach is a botiid loach (Botiidae) from fresh water of the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate, light-brown body with a dark stripe along the back body with barbels around the mouth and a small, erectable spine below the eye. As a nocturnal, social bottom-dweller it searches among stones and roots for snails, worms, insect larvae and plant material. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Skunk loach?
The Skunk loach has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Skunk loach live?
The Skunk loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Laos, Thailand
How big does the Skunk loach get?
The Skunk loach grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Skunk loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Skunk 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 Skunk loach edible?
Yes, the Skunk loach is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Yasuhikotakia
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Skunk loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Skunk loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone