Mango Loach

The Mango Loach, scientifically known as Physoschistura mango, is a small, rare species of river loach native to the fast-flowing, rocky streams of northern Thailand. It is prized in the aquarium hobby for its striking pattern, active behavior, and suitability for cool, well-oxygenated stream aquariums.

Adult Mango Loaches typically reach about 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm) in length. They have a slender, elongated body with a pale golden-yellow to orange background color, adorned with bold, irregular black vertical bars or blotches along the flanks. The head is slightly flattened, and the mouth is oriented downward for grazing on biofilm and small invertebrates. The fins are mostly clear, sometimes with faint banding, and the belly is pale. Males and females are similar in appearance, but females may be slightly rounder when mature.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a small group. Mango Loaches are social and do best in groups of five or more. The aquarium should feature a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, with rounded river rocks, pebbles, and plenty of hiding places created with driftwood or stacked stones. Strong water flow and high oxygenation are essential, mimicking their natural stream habitat—use a powerhead or river manifold for current, and ensure stable, clean water.

Water parameters for the Mango Loach should include a temperature range of 68 to 75°F (20 to 24°C), a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Pristine water quality and well-oxygenated conditions are crucial for long-term health, so perform regular partial water changes and provide efficient filtration.

Feeding Physoschistura mango is straightforward, as they are omnivorous micro-predators and grazers. Offer a varied diet of sinking micro pellets, wafers, and live or frozen foods such as daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. They will also graze on algae, biofilm, and detritus found on rocks and tank surfaces.

Mango Loaches are peaceful but active, and make excellent tankmates for other small, current-loving species such as hillstream loaches, danios, or white cloud mountain minnows. Avoid housing them with aggressive or large fish that may outcompete them for food or territory.

Breeding the Mango Loach in captivity is extremely rare and not well documented. They are believed to be egg scatterers that spawn among rocks or dense vegetation, but successful rearing of fry has not been reliably reported in home aquariums.

Physoschistura mango (Mango Loach) is a lively, beautifully marked species perfect for cool, well-oxygenated stream tanks with plenty of flow, cover, and grazing surfaces.