Loaches Online Forum

I do wonder if the initial tank size these are placed in has a massive bearing on their possible adult size - I'm not saying anyone is keeping them in cramped conditions, because I know you lot wouldn't, but that 5" specimen was placed into an 8ft tank when it was very small (and without spending very long beforehand in the smallish stock tanks). A minimum twice daily partial water change regime on that display tank and lots of varied feeds may have had a hand in it's large proportions? It is a tank that you walk past quite a lot in the shop and it's easy to drop in a bit of food when your passing by with a jugful of frozen foods intended for something else. I added some more smallish specimens last year and all seem to be growing well so far. It will be interesting to see how quickly they grow and if they attain a monster size.

Emma

Keep us posted, Emma!

I would say that my largest ones are about 3 inches, perhaps a tad more. They came that size - I've only had them for 3 months. They don't seem to be growing very much if at all - SAEs in the same tank have tripled in size during the same time, and are now also 3 inches. Another inch or two would be perfect.

my biggest one is definately a chunky fish. my BIG yoyos have lost some of their lard, and the other ones have put on a length growth spurt to try and match their size, so i think inch for inch, my striata must be the most solid fish i have. my smaller ones have grown a lot slower than the yoyos have.

Hi BsLindengren , i think with Striatas a little patience is required ! SAE's are pretty quick growers and four inches SL within eighteen months wouldnt be that big a feat ?i guess we must unwittingly be able to better meet their food requirments , as for overcrowding i am guilty ! too many fish , not enough tanks ! BUT i am a hands on aquarist i.e. plenty of water changes and good food , no excuses really.