Giant Coolie Loach

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Pangio myersi
• Common Name: Giant Coolie Loach, Myer’s Loach
• Adult Size: 10–12 cm (4–5 inches)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years (can live longer in optimal conditions)
• Habitat: Soft-bottomed streams and slow-moving rivers with leaf litter and dense vegetation in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia)

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger preferred for groups)
• Ideal Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–12 dGH)
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, and social; best kept in groups of 5 or more

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
  • Eats small live and frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), sinking pellets, and algae wafers
  • Will scavenge leftover food on the substrate
  • Benefits from a varied diet with protein and some vegetable matter

Appearance

• Body: Elongated, eel-like, with alternating dark and light vertical bands
• Color: Brown or orange-yellow with dark brown to black bands
• Size Comparison: Larger than the common kuhli loach (Pangio kuhlii), but similar in shape and behavior

Distinctive Features

• Burrowing behavior: Loves to dig in sand or fine substrate — ensure no sharp gravel
• Nocturnal: More active at night or during feeding
• Social: Needs to be kept in groups for natural behavior and reduced stress
• Peaceful bottom-dweller: Excellent for community tanks with calm tank mates
• Sensitive to water changes: Prefers stable, clean water with gentle filtration