The Golden Weather Loach or Dojo Loach is so named because it will become very active and swim erratically in response to sudden changes in barometric pressure or temperature. It is a very long, slender fish that is mainly peachy yellow in color, a hypomelanistic color variant. They have very interesting whiskers or “barbels” that help them find food as they dig through the substrate.Though they are reported to reach a length of 10 inches, they more frequently only grow to be about 5 inches. Weather loaches are very versatile in that they can withstand a large variety of temperatures and water conditions. They survive long, cold winters and droughts by burrowing deep in the mud and secreting a thick mucus.These loaches are fun fish to watch because of their interesting array of behaviors. They are generally active both in the daytime and at night, and can usually be seen burrowing in the substrsate and looking for food.Because they are inclined to dig, it is important to provide fine sand or small, smooth sided gravel to prevent injury to the fish. Weather loaches are not picky eaters, and will accept most fresh and prepared foods. In Korea and Japan, weather loaches are sold for use in soups and some other foods.