Click Here to See Images

Basics

Scientific Name: Botia striata

Family: Cobitidae

Origin: India

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Moderate 
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Lifespan: 6-8 years or longer
• Water Conditions: 72-86° F, KH 8-12, pH 6.0-7.5
• Maximum Size: 3.5"- 4"
• Diet: Omnivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Overview

Zebra Loaches have blunt, pointed snouts with small barbels to detect food. They are covered from nose to tail tip in intricate black striping not unlike the zebras from which they get their name. 

The tank should have a soft, sandy substrate and be decorated with driftwood and rocks to form hiding places for them. While they can be housed with most peaceful or semi-aggressive tankmates, they should not be housed with other bottom feeders (such as Corydoras catfish) aside from their own species as they may aggressively quarrel with them for space. They should be kept in groups of at least six. 

They are omnivores and enjoy live or frozen bloodworms, tubifex, daphnia and brine shrimp as well as vegetable matter. Specialized sinking bottom feeder wafers will help ensure that they get their proper nutrition.