SPECIES ID / Freshwater Fish of the Fraser Valley

Loach Family (Cobitidae)

  • Family is native to east Asia.
  • Most species are scavengers and are able to live in poor water quality with low levels of oxygen.
  • The Dojo Loach, a common aquarium species, was introduced to the Alouette River in Pitt Meadows around 2000, and has since spread to neighbouring watersheds.

Identification Tips:

  • Long, eel-like body shape
  • No scales
  • Mouth faces downward
  • Barbels around mouth

 

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Primary Information Source:
McPhail, J.D. 2007. The Freshwater Fishes of British Columbia. University of Alberta Press. Edmonton, Alberta.