Details of all species referred to in these Fish Care Sheets can be found in the FBAS Booklet No 6 - National Show Fish Sizes. Click HERE for information.

                                                    Loaches                    01/02/2002

Genera: Botia, Gyrinocheilus ,Nemacheilus, Pangio.

Family: Balitoridae, Cobitidae.

Geographic Origin: Virtually worldwide distribution with the exception of
                             South America and Australia.

Common Names: Chinese Algae Eater, Chain, Clown, Tiger Loaches.

Compatibility: Generally quite peaceful fish, that are well suited to a
                      community aquarium. Many are nocturnal by nature, hiding away
                      during 'tank-lit' hours. Large specimens of the Chinese Algae
                      Eater (which actually isn't a Loach) may become aggressive, as
                      may groups of five or more of the Botia species.

Minimum Aquarium Size: Should not be kept in tanks of less than
                                     600mm x300mm x 300mm (24” x 12” x 12”).
                                     Bigger aquariums are much better as the fish
                                     tend to move around the tank searching for food.

Temperature: With a few exceptions, all are quite happy at temperatures
                      between 20^o/27^oC 70 ^o/80^oF.

Habitat: Most are found in rivers or hill streams (these are often considerably
              cooler and may be fast flowing). Like a well planted tank with
              rockwork or places to hide.

Water Parameters: Undemanding, providing it is clean and clear.
                             A weekly water change of 25% is recommended.

Health: Some - particularly the Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) - are
            often susceptible to White Spot. Treat with proprietary medicines
            but be aware that fishes with very small scales may be adversely
            affected by the remedy.

Diet: Dried,frozen and live foods such as Daphnia and Tubifex are all readily
         accepted. Algae wafers are beneficial to their diet.

Plants: All tropical plants are acceptable in the aquarium.

Breeding Notes : An area shrouded in mystery, although some spawnings,
                         especiallyBotia macracanthus, have reportedlyoccurred
                         naturally in aquariums.

Availability: Many different species are available.

Show Class: Usually FBAS Show Classes L or La. Some in Class M or W.

© FBAS 2002. PWC/RDE.                                  Fish Care Sheet 20 1/1

    Download this Care Sheet                                     Photographs