YoYo Pakistani Loach Botia Almorhae 4cm

Overview

The Yoyo Loach is a lively botia whose silver body carries dark bars that in juveniles spell out 'Y' and 'O' shapes, breaking into a netted pattern with age. It comes from calm pools in the highland streams of India, Nepal and Bangladesh. Curious, sociable and a keen snail eater, it suits medium to large community tanks holding a group.

• Adult Size: Around 13–15 cm (5–6 in)
• Lifespan: 5–8 years, sometimes far longer

Origin

• Native to: Northern India, Nepal and Bangladesh
• Habitat: Calm pools of highland streams over sand, rock and driftwood

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, leaning carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: Sinking pellets, bloodworm, mysis, earthworms, snails, cucumber
• Feeding Habits: Feed once or twice daily; greedy, so ration portions and remove leftovers

Tank Mates

• Best with: Tetras, barbs, rasboras, rainbowfish, platies, mollies, other botias
• Avoid: Snails, shrimp, long-finned fish such as bettas and angels, cichlids

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, boisterous and inquisitive
• Territoriality: Pecking-order squabbles within the group; occasional nipping of trailing fins

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
• Challenges: Needs a group, clean water and space; sensitive to medications and salt

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, neutral, clean and oxygenated
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Hardness: 3–12 dGH
• Flow: Moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 250 litres for a group of five adults

Final Notes

A tiny juvenile becomes a substantial adult, so buy at least five and plan for a long, roomy tank. Kept singly it hides and pines. Provide sand, caves and subdued lighting, and expect it to clear pest snails. Females grow plump with eggs but it is not bred in home aquaria. The sharp spine below each eye catches in nets, so move it in a container. Given company, it is playful and full of character.