Source: Wikimedia Commons
Zebra Loach
BeginnerZebra loach
A loach with beautiful black-white stripes. Bottom-dweller also useful for snail control.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
22〜28℃
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
8-10cm
Diet
Pellets, Frozen food
About
The zebra loach (Botia striata) is a freshwater loach endemic to a restricted range of rivers and streams within the Western Ghats of India. At 8–10 cm, its entire body is decorated with intricate narrow black-and-white (or dark brown) zebra-like crossbands — the namesake pattern that makes it visually distinctive among loach species. Both an ornamental aquarium fish and a traditional food fish for the Katkari people of the region, the zebra loach is active, curious, and reasonably peaceful with other fish. It is best kept in groups and prefers fine, soft substrate for burrowing. Water conditions of pH 6.0–7.5 at 22–26°C are suitable. Diet is omnivorous with a preference for sinking foods, frozen bloodworms, and small snails — the latter making it a useful natural snail controller. Ample hiding places in the form of driftwood and rock formations reduce stress. Captive breeding is rarely achieved; most available specimens are wild-caught. As an Indian endemic with limited range, it requires responsible sourcing.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
rivers and streams of the Western Ghats, India
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
8-10cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Diet
Pellets, Frozen food
Care Guide
Water
Care Specifications
- pH
- 6–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 5–12 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 23–26℃
PeacefulGroupBreeding: Very hard
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listedIUCN EN · Endangered
IUCN Endangered(2011 assess, e.T168591A6521075、Western Ghats 固有・狭域)。流通個体の多くは養殖。CITES 非該当。
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Zebra Loach Listings
Loading latest listingsFind listings for this species
