Dwarf Loach | Botia sidthimunki

Loaches / Botiinae / Dwarf Loach

Profile: Dwarf Loach, Chain Loach
Botia sidthimunki Synonyms: None
Physical description: An elongated Loach with a forked caudal fin. The back is light brown while the flanks are copper colored. The flanks are marked two lateral brown bands. One runs from the snout, and near the ridge of the back, while the other runs laterally through the eye and along the mid-section. These bands are connected by a number of transverse stripes which run from the apex of the back, to the second band. The belly is silver and the fins are colorless.
Size/Length: To 2.4" (6 cm)
Similar species: None
Habitat: Inhabits muddy, still and slow moving bodies of water in Southeast Asia; India and Thailand
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: A tank measuring 24" (61 cm) with a capacity from 10-20 gallons (38-76 L) is suggested. Follow suggestions for B. morleti .
Water chemistry: pH 6.2-7.7 (7.4), 1-15 dH (4), 77-86°F (25-30°C)
Social behavior: An active schooling species which is suitable for most community tanks. This peaceful species is day active. Only keep in groups of five or more, as single specimen do poorly.
Suggested companions: Barbs, Danios, Rasboras, Gouramis, tetras, Hatchetfish, Loricarids, Corydoras, Rainbowfish, Livebearers
FOOD: Tablets; live; worms, insect larvae, aquatic insects, crustaceans; flakes
SEX: Only distinguishable when the female is preparing to spawn and is noticeably rounder than the male.
Breeding techniques: Spawnings have occured accidentally on a couple of occasions. Details are not available.
Breeding potential: 10. This species has spawned rarely in captivity.
Remarks: During courtship, this species is said to undergo a color change.
Difficulty of care: 4. A schooling, community fish that requires a regime of frequent partial water changes to be at its best.