Banded mountain loach vs Bengal loach: can they live together?

Verdict: Not recommended

  • The Bengal loach is aggressive towards other fish.
  • An adult Bengal loach is about 3 times the length of a Banded mountain loach and may eat it.
  • Both are comfortable at 23–25.5°C (73–78°F).
  • A pH of 6.5–7.5 suits both.

Side by side

Banded mountain loachBengal loach
Adult size5 cm (2 in)15 cm (5.9 in)
Minimum tank210 L (55 US gal)210 L (55 US gal)
Temperature20–25.5°C (68–78°F)23–28°C (73–82°F)
pH6.0–7.56.5–7.5
TemperamentPeacefulAggressive
Care levelModerate–
Diet–Omnivore

Species profiles