Stone Loach "Thuttinjet" | Nemacheilus sp. The Thuttinjet Stone Loach (Nemacheilus stigmofasciatus) is rare and was only recently introduced to the hobby. Even with that, it’s been easy for us to keep and it accepts most foods. This loach is marked by a thin black line that runs down its side like a dotted roadway. It has a mottled pattern similar to a Yo-Yo Loach, with small “Y” and “O” shapes. The face is rounded, a bit like a Siamese Algae Eater. Since receiving them, we’ve found they’re active and social. For this reason, we recommend keeping a small group of three or more so they have company. As with most loaches, a bit of flow in the tank helps them feel more natural, although it isn’t necessary. What do Stone Loaches Eat Nemacheilus stigmofasciatus has been surprisingly easy to feed. We mainly use NorthFin Kelp Flakes, a mix of small pellets (we grind 3–4 NorthFin pellet types), and frozen foods like cyclops and daphnia. Based on their appetite, the Thuttinjet Stone Loach should accept most foods, but keep their small mouths in mind. Best Parameters for Nemacheilus species We’ve kept them in semi-hard water with TDS about 180, GH 6–8, KH 2–4, and pH around 7.2–7.8. A setup with soft sand or smooth gravel, good oxygen, and a few hiding spots works well. Although, we keep them in a bare bottom aquarium with a sponge or matten filter with no issues. With that, these rare loaches settle in quickly and show off their unique pattern. Our Tank Parameters: Ph: 7.2 to 7.6 Gh: 4 to 8 Kh: 2 to 4 Temp: 70 to 74
