Kuhli loach

[Tl52505]

I was thinking about getting a few kuhli loaches, but somebody said they need specific substrate. Should I change it from what I have right now first, and should I get more hiding places for them

 

[Essjay]

Kuhkis really need sand as they like to bury themselves and gravel is not the best substrate for this.
It is better for the fish in the tank now if they are removed to a second tank, or a bucket or a plastic storage container for the changeover. Sand will need washing so it's better to prepare this in advance. Water is then transferred from the tank to the other container, the heater and filter moved over and run to keep the container filtered and warm, any live plants can go in there as well. Then it's case of removing the old substrate and probably the rest of the water as it will get messy, putting the sand in, adding some new water and planting any live plants, then transferring everything from the container back into the tank and topping up with more new water.

The container needs to be covered as fish can and will jump - an old towel or something like that is ideal if the container doesn't have its own lid.

 

[Tl52505]

I saw somewhere that fine gravel would work as well, is this true and if it is would I be able to layer some of that on top of what is in there now

 

[anewbie]

No - you should replace the substrate with something that is fine. They will dig into it.

 

[Tl52505]

I meant like gravel that is all really small pieces

 

[anewbie]

No. it needs to not have sharp edges. Pool filter sand or sandbox sand - some people recommend quikrete sand - home depot sells it for $5 per 50lb.