Pond Loach
Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
Identification
An elongated, eel-like fish of 15 to 25 cm closely resembling the native European weatherloach. Yellowish-brown to olive-green with dark spots. Ten barbels around the small mouth. Distinguishing from the native species requires careful examination of tail fin shape and color pattern.
Ecology
Lives in shallow, still or slow-flowing waters with muddy bottoms. Can use intestinal breathing in oxygen-poor water. Very tolerant of poor water quality and drying. Spawns multiple times per season.
In the Netherlands
Listed on the EU Invasive Alien Species list. Dozens of records in the Netherlands, likely introduced via the aquarium trade and garden ponds. Threatens the protected native weatherloach through competition and hybridization.
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Seasonal patterns
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Key predictors
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