Karstsinnectes cehengensis
The Ceheng Chinese karst loach (Karstsinnectes cehengensis) is a tiny endemic freshwater loach reaching only 4.8 cm. It inhabits clear karst streams and is sought mainly by micro‑aquarium hobbyists rather than sport anglers.
Family
Nemacheilidae
Max Size
4.8 cm
Habitat
freshwater
Climate
subtropical
Best Season
Spring (April–June)
Best Time
Early morning and late evening
No distribution map available
Ceheng Karst Stream
ChinaClear limestone stream in Ceheng County, Guizhou, renowned for abundant populations of the karst loach.
Best: April‑June
Wulong Karst River
ChinaWide karst river in Wulong District, Chongqing; easy access and good water clarity make it a popular spot for beginners.
Best: May‑June
Nong'an Cave Pool
ChinaA secluded limestone cave pool in Guangxi Province; requires basic cave‑diving skills but yields high‑quality specimens.
Best: March‑April
Yunnan Stone River
ChinaFast‑flowing, stone‑lined river near Dali, Yunnan; offers consistent habitat and moderate difficulty for anglers.
Best: June‑July
Lao Cai Karst Stream
VietnamBorder‑region karst stream feeding into the Red River; less known but supports a viable loach population.
Best: April‑May
Tai Po Reservoir (Stocked)
Hong KongManaged reservoir where the loach is regularly stocked for sport fishing; highly accessible and beginner‑friendly.
Best: October‑November
Best bait: Live daphnia, bloodworms, or other microscopic invertebrates