Barbel question

[noodles62]

Would loaches' barbels be ok in a tank with Eco Complete substrate? (not the sand type). It seems a bit rough IMO. I may be getting some loaches but do not want to hurt thier little whiskers!

 

[fishorama]

I have sids & striatas with Eco. no problems after 3 years. They don't dig very deep in it, I saw a sid up to his gills only once.

 

[noodles62]

I have sids & striatas with Eco. no problems after 3 years. They don't dig very deep in it, I saw a sid up to his gills only once.

Thanks! I used to have sand but have since changed to eco complete and want to make sure it is safe for fishies w/ barbels.....

 

[pinkertd]

Noods their barbels aren't soft like cories, they are rather stiff. I suspect they feel a bit like a tiny toothpick from the response my cories give when the curious loaches get close to them. It's kinda an "ouch" and a "scoot" by the cories!

 

[Lupin]

And you wonder why the barbels seem to remain intact unlike the cories.lol

 

[noodles62]

Thanks Deb and Lupin. :grinyes:
I was looking at the sids on line and it said sand substrate is best due to the barbels....I feel better now.