Olive and cream stripes that fork and rejoin down the body like tree bark, never quite forming a straight line. Calmer than a clown loach, smaller than a yoyo, and a tireless snail hunter.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment10โ15 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Skin conditions
๐ Care guide
The Zebra Loach (Botia striata) comes from fast, rocky streams in the Western Ghats of southern India and reaches about 6 to 9 cm. Its irregular vertical striping is unique to each fish, and it is among the most peaceful members of a genus better known for boisterousness. Given good care it commonly lives ten years or more, which many buyers do not expect. Keep a group of at least five, since a lone specimen becomes stressed and reclusive, in a tank of 110 litres or more at 22-26C with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and clean, well-oxygenated water with moderate flow. Use soft sand or smooth gravel to protect the barbels, and provide caves, driftwood and shaded hiding places. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, frozen bloodworm and daphnia. Two practical notes: it is an effective controller of pest snails, and like all loaches it is scaleless and sensitive to medication, so ich treatments should be dosed at half strength.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Zebra Loach?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Zebra Loach need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Zebra Loach need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Zebra Loach a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Zebra Loach live?
10โ15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Zebra Loach?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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