As an expert in fishkeeping, I can tell you that it is not recommended to keep just one kuhli loach. While they may not be schooling fish in the traditional sense, kuhli loaches are still social creatures that thrive in the company of their own kind.
Kuhli loaches are naturally shy and timid fish. They prefer to have companions around them to feel safe and secure in their environment. If kept alone, a kuhli loach is likely to become stressed and may exhibit signs of fear and anxiety. They may hide most of the time and not explore their tank as they would with companions.
In a group, kuhli loaches will feel more confident and comfortable. They will actively swim around, explore their surroundings, and exhibit their natural behavior. They will also engage in playful interactions with each other, which adds to their overall well-being.
Keeping multiple kuhli loaches also provides them with a sense of security. They are nocturnal creatures and tend to be more active during the night. Having tank mates allows them to engage in natural behaviors, such as foraging and hunting for food together. It also helps them feel safer during their active period.
Furthermore, kuhli loaches are known to display interesting social dynamics within their group. They may form hierarchies and establish territories, which can be fascinating to observe. Without other loaches to interact with, these behaviors would be absent, resulting in a less enriching and fulfilling experience for the fish and the fishkeeper.
Ideally, it is recommended to keep at least a small group of three to five kuhli loaches together. This allows them to establish a natural social structure and provides them with a better quality of life. However, if you have a smaller tank, even two kuhli loaches can still provide some level of companionship for each other.
While kuhli loaches may not be traditional schooling fish, they are social creatures that benefit from the presence of their own kind. Keeping just one kuhli loach can lead to stress, fear, and a lack of exploration in the aquarium. To ensure the well-being and happiness of these fascinating fish, it is best to keep them in groups of at least two or more.