The Kulli fish: characteristics, care and reproduction in aquariums

If you're looking for calm and peaceful fish that integrates perfectly into a community aquarium, the kulli fish It is an excellent choice. Originally from Thailand and Indonesia, this fish stands out for its peaceful coexistence with other species. de peces, making it a great candidate for shared aquariums. In fact, the Kulli fish not only tolerates, but enjoys the company of other fish, so it is recommended to keep it in groups of at least a dozen specimens to ensure its well-being.

Physical characteristics of the Kulli fish

The Kulli fish, also known as Pangio kuhlii The kuhlii loach, or locha kuhlii, has a very peculiar appearance. It is often mistaken for a snake due to its elongated and narrow body that can reach 15 centimeters in length. Its fins are very small, which reinforces its snake-like appearance. In addition, it has a dark body with colored bands that vary between black, orange and yellow. These bands give it a distinctive pattern that is very reminiscent of a snake. It is worth noting that although its eyes are small, they are covered by a thin membrane that protects them. This fish has barbels around its mouth, which help it detect food at the bottom of the aquarium.

Natural habitat

The Kulli fish has its natural habitat in the rivers and streams of Thailand and Indonesia. It prefers areas with a slow current and sand or gravel beds where it can hide, which simulates the conditions of its natural environment very well. Kulli are shade-loving fish and constantly seek shelter, which should be taken into account when recreating their ecosystem in the aquarium.

Behavior and sociability

The Kulli fish, despite its intimidating appearance, is extremely peaceful. It is recommended to keep it in groups as it is a gregarious fish, meaning it tends to get stressed if kept alone for long periods of time. During the day, you are likely to see it hiding amongst plants, rocks or under aquarium decorations, although Kulli are more active at night. In some cases they may bury themselves in sand or gravel, so it is important to ensure that the aquarium substrate is fine and not too abrasive.

This nocturnal behaviour is related to their natural shyness. However, it is possible that by being in a large group, the Kullis feel safer and become more active during the day.

Sexual dimorphism

The sexual dimorphism of the Kulli fish is not very evident, making it difficult to differentiate between males and females. However, during the breeding season, females tend to be larger and have a rounded abdomen due to the eggs. On the other hand, males may have slightly longer pectoral fins with more pigmentation on their edges.

Kulli Fish Care in Aquariums

To ensure the health and well-being of the Kulli fish, it is essential to recreate its natural conditions as faithfully as possible. Below we offer some key points for its correct maintenance:

• Aquarium size: An aquarium of at least 100 litres is recommended to start with. This allows for a suitable group and gives them enough space to swim and hide. Due to their gregarious behaviour, keeping more than one Kulli in the same tank is mandatory; a group of at least six individuals is ideal.
• Substratum: The bottom of the aquarium should be made of a fine substrate, preferably sand or soft gravel. Kullis enjoy burying themselves in it, so the type of substrate is crucial to avoid damage.
• Decoration: Rocky bottoms, plants and structures such as caves or logs are essential. Providing plenty of hiding places is essential for them to feel safe and stay healthy.
• Lighting: Kullis prefer aquariums with dim lighting. If the light is too bright, they will hide all day, which can cause stress.
• Water temperature and parameters: The optimum water temperature should be kept between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius. The pH of the aquarium should be between 5.5 and 6.5, with adequate water hardness (between 5-10 dGH).

Kulli Fish Feeding

The Kulli fish is omnivorous, meaning it is not particularly fussy about its diet. In the wild it will eat organic debris, small invertebrates and detritus. In the aquarium it will accept a wide variety of foods, including flake food, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, daphnia or tubifex.

It is important to provide them with food that falls to the bottom of the tank, as this fish is primarily a floor feeder. Although they are active at night, over time they can be accustomed to eating during the day if trained to do so.

Water care

Maintaining water quality is essential to prevent disease. It is suggested to perform water changes of 20% to 30% monthly, making sure the new water is at a similar temperature to the aquarium to avoid causing stress. Kullis are sensitive to chemicals, especially copper, so its use in aquarium treatments should be avoided.

Reproduction in captivity

Breeding Kulli fish in captivity is very complicated and rarely occurs naturally. Occasionally, breeding has been successful using hormones, but this method is not widespread.

Females lay about 300 eggs, which are fertilized by the males and attached to the roots of floating plants. The eggs are greenish in color and hatch within 24 to 30 hours, depending on the water temperature. It is important to note that the parents can eat the eggs, so if you intend to breed them, you should move the eggs to a separate tank.

As for water conditions for breeding, it is essential that the water be soft, with a hardness of no more than 10dGH and a pH of between 6.0 and 6.5.

Interesting fact: Although it is very difficult to obtain them in captivity, in their natural habitat Kullis can reproduce several times throughout their life, especially during the warmer months when water temperatures are more favorable.

Caring for Kulli fish requires dedication and attention to detail, but in return, they offer long lives and fascinating behaviors, as long as they are kept in the right conditions and in the company of others of their species.