Ambastaia nigrolineata
Summary
Scientific name: Ambastaia nigrolineata (Kotellat, 2012)
Common name: Black Lined Loach.
Synonyms: Botia nigrolineata, Yasuhikotakia nigrolineata (Kotellat, 2004)
Distribution: Clear, fast-flowing waters of the Mekong basin - China, Laos, Thailand.
Sexual Dimorphism: Mature females are likely to have a rounder abdomen.
Maximum size: 4 inches (10cm)
Similar to: Ambastaia sidthimunki
Care: A peaceful, shoaling species that can be a little shy. A. nigrolineata should be maintained in groups of at least 5 (and preferably more) in the community aquarium. Keep on a fine sandy substrate in order to protect the delicate sensory barbel area, and ensure that there are plenty of hiding places and shady areas in the aquarium amongst bogwood, caves, and plants. Clean, well-aerated water with a good flow is essential.
Feeding: Will accept most brands of dry sinking
catfish pellets, but should be offered a variety of frozen foods to supplement
the diet - mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, and daphnia are usually taken with much
enthusiasm. This species, as with other Botiine loaches, will eat small aquatic
snails.
Water parameters: pH: 7.0 or below. Hardness: Soft and slightly acidic is best. Max dH: <12 degrees.
Temperature: 59ºF to 79ºF (15-26°C)
Breeding: Not known to have been bred in aquaria.
Notes
Juvenile specimens of A. nigrolineata and A. sidthimunki are often confused with
each other. A. nigrolineata grows much
larger, and it's markings change as it matures.
Note that A. nigrolineata has a more solid lateral stripe and lacks the continuation of vertical markings below it.
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