1. a small freshwater fish with a long body, barbels around the mouth, and typically a bottom-feeding habit, found in streams and rivers of Europe and Asia
Usage: common in aquariums; various species exist, including stone loach and spined loach

Examples

• The loach is a popular choice for freshwater aquariums because it helps keep the tank clean.
• Loaches are bottom feeders that search for food along the substrate.
• Many species of loach are native to Asian rivers and streams.
• The stone loach is one of the most common loach species in Europe.
• Aquarists often add loaches to their tanks to control algae and debris.