Bengal Loach (Botia dario)

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Bengal Loach

Botia dario1.jpg
Bengal Loach

Botia dario

132 Litres (35 US G.)

15-16 cm (5.9-6.3")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.5 - 7.5

23 -26 °C (73.4-78.8°F)

8-10 °d

1:2 M:F

Carnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

5-8 years

Family

Cobitidae



Additional names

Bengal Loach, Queen Loach, Geto Loach

Additional scientific names

Botia geto, Cobitis dario, Cobitis geto, Canthophrys flavicauda, Diacanthus flavicauda, Canthophrys zebra, Diacanthus zebra


Sexing

It is not possible to sex this fish visually and there are no known reports of it breeding in captivity.


Tank compatibility

A sociable Loach that should be kept in groups of 4 or more. Will be peaceful towards tank mates, but do not keep with fragile fish that may be bothered by this Loach's active nature.


Diet

Will accept most foods including sinking pellet and flake as well as live/frozen food such as bloodworm and brine shrimp. This fish is an omnivore, so make sure to feed algae wafers and/or fresh veggies (such as zucchini) as well.


Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day.


Environment specifics

Requires a spacious tank with good filtration and plenty of hiding places and caves. It requires a soft substrate of fine sand or small rounded gravel.


Behaviour

An active sociable Loach. Similar to the Clown Loach, this fish will lie on its side sometimes when it sleeps.


Identification

This Loach has the typical elongate Loach shape. Its body is grey in colour with thin yellow bands down the body. The fins are yellow in colouration and the caudal fin has two dark vertical bands.

Pictures

External links