Yo-Yo Loach
Alternative Name(s): Pakistan Loach, Reticulated Loach
Scientific Name(s): Botia almorhae, Botia lochata
Category: Tropical
Difficulty:
Maximum Size: 15cms
Minimum Tank Volume: 250 litres
Minimum Tank Size: 48" (120 cm)
Water Temperature Range: 20-28°C
Water pH Range: 6.0-7.5
Water Hardness Range: 2-12 dGH
General Information: Generally peaceful loach with similar social structure and behaviour to the popular Clown Loach, though does not need such a huge tank as Clowns so is a better option for most hobbyists. Needs to be kept in groups of 4 or more to avoid the dominant fish starving the least dominant.
Tank Requirements: At least 4ft long with plenty of hiding places, bogwood, rocks, caves etc., both to provide safe haven if any fighting breaks out, and for their amusement as they love to explore. Sandy substrate preferred to avoid barbel damage when searching for food.
Diet Requirements: Mainly carnivorous, but will also eat some vegetable matter such as cucumber and courgette. Diet should consist of sinking pellets, quality flake, bloodworm, mysis, chopped earthworm (sparingly) plus veg.
Compatibility: Generally peaceful though can be a fin-nipper so avoid fish with flowing finnage. Avid snail-eater so don't keep with snails!
Recommendations: Don't assume a Yo-Yo Loach is dead if it appears pale and lifeless. They do sometimes simply stretch out when resting and appear dead, but are actually fine.
Common Problems: Sensitive to poor water quality and needs pristine conditions with low nitrates. Avoid overfeeding as they are very greedy.
Similar Species: Other Botias including Clown Loaches.
Sexing: Females are plumper than males, particularly when full of eggs. Males' barbels show a reddish colour when mature.
Breeding: Not bred in captivity
Author(s): Fishlady | Photo: | Views: 15369
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