Common Name: Redtail Sand Loach
Scientific Name: Kapuasia maculiceps
The Redtail Sand Loach is a wild-caught loach from Borneo that is rarely seen in the hobby. It is a small, bottom-dwelling loach, and its trade name refers to its reddish tail. It is an unusual and interesting fish that is highly prized by aquarists who enjoy Asian species.
Habitat and Distribution:
Kapuasia maculiceps is native to the Kapuas River drainage of Borneo, where it lives over sand in streams. The Kapuas is the longest river in Indonesia, and many of its tributaries are soft, slightly acidic forest streams.
Size and Lifespan:
It reaches about 2.5-3 inches (6-8 cm). Lifespan in captivity is not well documented for this species, but with good care it can be expected to live for many years.
Diet and Behavior:
In the aquarium, offer small sinking foods, bloodworms and other frozen foods. It is a peaceful bottom-dweller that spends much of its time sifting sand for food. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
It is not bred in home aquariums; fish in the trade are wild-caught. Little is documented about its breeding habits in the wild.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of at least 40 gallons is recommended for a group. Provide fine sand, smooth stones and gentle to moderate water movement. The water temperature should be kept between 72-82°F (22-28°C), with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and soft to moderately hard water. Efficient filtration and regular partial water changes are essential to maintain water quality, and new arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Good tank mates include small, peaceful fish such as rasboras, small barbs and other peaceful loaches. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. Little aquarium data exists, so stable, clean water and a soft sand bottom are important. It is well suited to aquarists with some experience who can maintain stable water conditions.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.0
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General Hardness (GH): 2-10 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-6 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- It spends most of its time on the bottom, sifting through fine sand.
- A soft sand substrate is important for its health.
- Keep it with other small, peaceful fish.
The Redtail Sand Loach is an unusual, peaceful loach for collectors of Southeast Asian fish. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
