How to clean/siphon gravel in tank with long-nosed loach??

[MARITA]

One of my loaches is a "horse-faced/long-nosed" loach who digs himself under the gravel often. I want to clean the gravel with a siphon, but am worried that I may hurt him. So, how can go about cleaning the gravel - any other method besides siphon? (Gravel REALLY needs cleaning!).

[Fear_The_Loach]

Well, I own one of these cool fish as well. As you may or may not know, these guys are touchy and can move like nobody's business. What I do is slowly prod around the tank with a dlunt object, like the back end of a net or spongestick, until I scare him up. He'll usually stay up on top for awhile, unless he's easily scared. Then, I just clean the tank while keeping a close watch on him. It may take awhile, but it's worth it.

Otherwise, if you ha da seperate tank, you could plop him in there for awhile. I've never had problems hurting my fishies with the siphon, so, if you just make sure to watch carefully, you'll probably be fine.

[Graeme Robson]

There is absolutely No need to scare them/him out of the substrate. These loaches can sense the slightest of movements or vibrations from under the substrate and will move at their own will. If your concerned that you might bump into him then use the long handle of your net 1 inch in front of your siphon as you move it around.

[MARITA]

Ok, I will use the suggestions (the back handle of the net in front of siphon) and VERY SLOWLY and VERY CAREFULLY clean the gravel. I hate to disturb my little ones, but it has got to be done. Again, thanx.

[Graeme Robson]

It's the best way. Tried and tested by myself for many a years.