Approx. 1.5″
The�Lohachata Botia Loach (Botia lohachata)�is also known to�tropical fish keeping�enthusiasts as the Yoyo Loach, Almorha Loach, Pakistani Loach, Reticulated Loach, and Y-Loach.
Because only a single juvenile specimen was used to originally describe�Botia lohachata, the validity of the species has never been fully resolved.�� Grant in 2007 considered it as a distinct species that has definitely been exported for the aquarium trade, but confirmation is still required.
Juvenile�Lohachata Botia Loaches�have a gold to silver metallic sheen that turns a gray to green in adults, without the sheen.� Three unconnected �Y� markings typically occur in adult and juvenile specimens which give rise to one of their common names, the�Yoyo Loach.
The dorsal fin of the�Lohachata Botia loach�has 2 to 3 bands; the caudal fin has 3 to 4 bands, the pectoral fins usually have 3 bands, the anal fin has 1 or 2 bands, and the ventral fins usually have 1 to 4 bands that increase with age.
The�Lohachata Botia Loach�can further be identified by the four pairs of barbels that protrude from their mouth and their silvery gold with irregular black striping color.
The�Lohachata Botia Loach�is often believed to be a scaleless fish but they do have very small scales that are embedded in their skin.
Like all loaches, the�Lohachata Botia Loach�is an active scavenger.� They are a semi aggressive species that enjoy the company of their own species.� They generally school with other loaches of the same size and age, and should be housed in groups of 6 or more specimens in an aquarium environment.
Lohachata Botia Loaches�require an aquarium of at least 30 gallons with a sandy or fine gravel substrate, some plants, some smooth river rock, a few pieces of driftwood or�bogwood�for them to hide among, and plenty of free swimming space. They like holes in driftwood or caves in the rockwork to hide and sleep.
Because�Lohachata Botia Loaches�are found in shaded jungle streams, they prefer subdued lighting or a few�floating plants�in their tank to diffuse the lighting and provide cover.
All botia loaches are excellent diggers, and because of their delicate barbels, should be provided with a sandy substrate in their tank. These loaches are also excellent jumpers and require a tightly fitting tank cover.
Lohachata Botia Loaches�do best in well oxygenated water with some degree of current in their tank.� They are intolerant to the accumulation of organic wastes and need spotless water conditions to thrive. For this reason, many tropical fish keeping enthusiasts opt for using a quality canister filter for this species. They should never be introduced into a biologically immature aquarium. Even so, they require regular 25% to 50% weekly water changes.
The breeding habits of this particular species have never been recorded, and to date no captive breeding program has yet been initiated.
Juvenile Botia Lohachata�will eat most prepared foods and should be fed small portions several times a day. Older specimens sometimes become finicky eaters and can be fed tubifex,�blackworms, small snails, etc. to augment their diet.
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-86� F, KH 8-12, pH 6.0-7.5
Max Size: 5?
Color Form: Black, White, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Good community tank fish
Origin: Bangladesh, North and Northeast India
Family: Cobitidae
Lifespan: 8 � 12 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate
