Zebra Loach

Botia striata

A beautiful black-and-gold loach that lives for a decade or more. Needs sand substrate to protect its barbels and a group of 5 or more.

Care Parameters

Adult size

10 cm

Min tank

110 L

Temperature

21–27°C

6–7.5

2–15 dGH

Diet

Omnivore

Temperament

Peaceful

Water zone

Bottom

Difficulty

Beginner

Schooling

Group of 5 or more, preferably 10.

Suitable Plants

Rotala rotundifolia

Care profile for Rotala rotundifolia: medium-high light, medium CO₂, intermediate difficulty.

Ludwigia Super Red

A vivid red stem plant that maintains its intense red coloration even under moderate lighting. Hardy and fast-growing, making it accessible for intermediate aquascapers.

Red Root Floater

A floating plant that develops striking red roots and reddish leaf undersides under high light. Provides shade and natural algae control. Breeding ground for fry.

Marsilea hirsuta

Care profile for Marsilea hirsuta: low-medium light, low CO₂, beginner difficulty.

Bucephalandra

Care profile for Bucephalandra: low light, low CO₂, intermediate difficulty.

Compatible Invertebrates

Blue Tiger Shrimp

A selectively bred freshwater shrimp with striking deep blue coloration. Requires soft, acidic water and careful parameter maintenance. Prized by shrimp collectors.

Snowball Shrimp

A selectively bred freshwater shrimp with opaque white coloration resembling snowballs. Requires soft, acidic water and pristine conditions for breeding.

Red Cherry Shrimp

A tiny, vivid red dwarf shrimp that breeds easily and endlessly entertains. Fine in nano tanks from 20 L; keep GH 4-15 dGH for successful molting, avoid copper-based medications entirely, and use a sponge filter so young shrimplets never get sucked in.

Rabbit Snail

A large, striking freshwater snail with a conical shell and colorful body. Comes in orange, yellow, and dark variants. Active algae and detritus consumer, but slow breeder.