The Stone Loach is a small freshwater fish attaining 7 to 14 cms in length. It is found in rivers, steams and the the high regions of lakes, but will not tolerate low oxygen levels so is not found in many nutrient-rich lowland lakes. The favoured habitats are small oxygen-rich streams. It hides among stones or within vegetation. The geographical range covers both Europe and Asia. They feed on bottom-living invertebrates and are themselves preyed upon by trout and other predatory fish. The eggs are released amongst gravel to which they adhere. They can live for at least 5 years and can produce 10,000 or more eggs. A nice fish, if you can find them.
Nemacheilus barbatulus Stone Loach is often fished out of local streams by children along with the Stickleback. They are similar to the Wheather Loach and Spined Loach all requiring cool, clean, clear and well oxygenated water to thrive.