The Striated spiny loach (Cobitis striata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 10 cm.
East Asia; clear streams, rivers and rice fields with sandy or gravel bottoms.
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Description
The striated spiny loach is a small loach of the family Cobitidae from East Asia, including Japan. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, elongate body with a row of dark spots or a broken stripe along the flank and barbels around the small mouth. Beneath each eye it bears a retractable spine. It inhabits clear brooks, rivers and rice fields with a sand or gravel bottom, where it likes to bury in the sediment. As a bottom searcher it roots with its barbels for small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and detritus. Reproduction is oviparous, with a distinct pairing. Owing to its small size the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striated spiny loach?
The Striated spiny loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Row of dark flank blotches and a retractable spine below the eye; buries itself in the sediment.
Where does the Striated spiny loach live?
The Striated spiny loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia; clear streams, rivers and rice fields with sandy or gravel bottoms.
How big does the Striated spiny loach get?
The Striated spiny loach grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Striated spiny loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Striated spiny loach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Striated spiny loach edible?
The Striated spiny loach is not usually eaten.
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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 Striated spiny loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striated spiny loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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