Botia histrionica

by Shari Sanford — last modified Nov 27, 2008 08:54 PM

Summary

Botia histronica Scientific name: Botia histrionica (Blyth, 1860)

Common name: Burmese Loach, Golden Zebra Loach, Silver Striped Loach

Synonyms: None

Distribution: India, Burma: the Salween basin. May occur in western Thailand

Sexual dimorphism: unknown

Maximum size: 5 inches (13 cm)

Similar to: Immature specimens can be confused with B. kubotai, B. almorhae, and B. rostrata. With maturity, each species takes on more distinctive colour and patterning.

Care: This is a relatively placid member of the genus Botia. Gregarious and curious, they are well suited to the community tank, but should be kept in numbers of 3 to 5 or more. Unlike a number of other Botia species, B. histrionica will be seen more regularly in the daytime if given ample hiding spots, a large aquarium (minimum 60 gallons, but larger tanks will see more activity), and the clean water that suits other Botiine loaches.

Feeding: Readily accepts quality flake food, sinking wafers, fresh vegetables, brine shrimp, bloodworms, etc... Not a finicky eater.

Water parameters: pH 6.5 - 7.2; Hardness: softer water. Max dh:

Temperature: 77-82F (25-28C)

Breeding: Not known to breed in the aquarium. Even cases of females becoming gravid are very rare.