Dojo loaches are a type of fish that is known to eat snails. In the wild these fish are found in freshwater streams and rivers in Asia where they use their large mouths to vacuum up snails from the substrate. Dojo loaches will also consume any snail that they can fit into their mouths which makes them a useful fish for controlling snail populations in aquariums.
While dojo loaches will eat most types of snails they seem to prefer larger species such as the apple snail. In aquaria these fish will often consume all of the snails in a tank which can lead to problems if the loaches are not removed before the snail population has a chance to recover. For this reason it is generally advisable to keep only one or two dojo loaches in an aquarium unless the tank is very large or the owner is willing to regularly supplement the loaches’ diet with other foods.
Dojo loaches are not particularly fussy eaters but they do need to be kept in schools of at least six fish in order to feel secure. In aquaria these fish are best kept with other loaches such as clown loaches as well as bottom-dwelling fish such as catfish and Corydoras. Dojo loaches are relatively peaceful fish but they can be nippy towards slow-moving or long-finned fish such as angels and bettas.
Dojo loaches are active fish that enjoy swimming and exploring their surroundings. In the wild these fish often congregate in large groups near the bottom of rivers and streams where they vacuum up any small invertebrates that they can find. In aquaria dojo loaches should be provided with plenty of hiding places such as rocks and Driftwood as well as a sandy substrate in which they can bury themselves.
Dojo loaches are not particularly difficult to care for but they do require a few special considerations. These fish are sensitive to poor water quality and should be kept in an aquarium with a good filtration system. Dojo loaches also prefer cooler water temperatures so an aquarium heater may be necessary to maintain a temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overall dojo loaches are interesting and active fish that can be a useful addition to many aquariums. These fish are relatively easy to care for and can help to control snail populations. However it is important to remember that dojo loaches will consume all of the snails in an aquarium if given the chance so they should be kept in small groups and supplemented with other foods if necessary.
Do dojo loaches eat snails?
Yes dojo loaches are known to eat snails.
How many snails can a dojo loach eat in a day?
It is thought that a dojo loach can eat around 3-4 snails in a day.
Do all dojo loaches eat snails?
No not all dojo loaches eat snails.
Some may prefer other food items.
What is the difference between a dojo loach that eats snails and one that does not?
It is unsure what the difference is between a dojo loach that eats snails and one that does not.
It could be a matter of preference or some other factor.
What do dojo loaches need in order to survive?
Dojo loaches need a tank with plenty of hiding places a sandy substrate and clean water.
What is the average lifespan of a dojo loach?
The average lifespan of a dojo loach is around 10 years.
Can dojo loaches live in freshwater or saltwater?
Dojo loaches can only live in freshwater.
What is the natural habitat of a dojo loach?
The natural habitat of a dojo loach is in rivers and streams in Asia.
What do dojo loaches eat in the wild?
In the wild dojo loaches eat a variety of things such as insects crustaceans and worms.
How big do dojo loaches get?
Dojo loaches can grow to be around 12 inches long.
Are dojo loaches social creatures?
Yes dojo loaches are social creatures and do best when kept in groups of 4 or more.
What is the minimum tank size for a dojo loach?
The minimum tank size for a dojo loach is 30 gallons.
What other fish can dojo loaches be kept with?
Dojo loaches can be kept with other peaceful fish such as barbs danios and tetras.
How often should dojo loaches be fed?
Dojo loaches should be fed once or twice a day.
What should be done if a dojo loach stops eating?
If a dojo loach stops eating the first thing to do is to check the water quality.
If the water quality is good then it is possible the loach is sick and you should take it to a vet.
