Botia striata (5–6cm), also known as the Zebra Loach, is a peaceful and active bottom-dweller with bold stripes—perfect for planted community aquariums.

Commonly known as the Zebra Loach, Botia striata is a small, attractive loach species with distinctive horizontal zebra-like striping across its slender body. At 5–6cm, it is a peaceful, social bottom-dweller that thrives in well-aquascaped community tanks. Its calm temperament, striking pattern, and excellent scavenging habits make it a favorite among aquarists looking for a hardy yet eye-catching loach for medium-sized aquariums.

Native to the clear, cool streams of India, the Zebra Loach prefers a well-oxygenated, soft-bottomed aquarium with plenty of hiding places and plants. It is best kept in small groups of five or more, which helps reduce shyness and brings out its natural social behaviors.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Botia striata

• Common Name: Zebra Loach

• Size: 5–6cm (can grow slightly larger in optimal conditions)

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, bottom-dwelling

• Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Tank Level: Bottom

• Best kept in groups of 5+ to thrive

🌊 Water Conditions

Zebra Loaches need stable, well-oxygenated water and plenty of décor to mimic their natural environment.

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: 5–10 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (larger for groups)

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Filtration: Moderate with gentle flow

• Lighting: Low to moderate

• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, caves, and live plants

Zebra Loaches are shy if housed alone—group living is key to their health and activity levels.

🐟 Tank Mates

Zebra Loaches are very peaceful and community-friendly, making them excellent bottom companions.

Ideal tank mates include:

• Tetras (Neon, Ember, Rummy Nose)

• Rasboras

• Gouramis

• Corydoras

• Small rainbowfish

• Peaceful barbs

Avoid:

• Large or aggressive cichlids

• Territorial bottom dwellers

• Tiny shrimp (may be eaten if hungry)

They’re excellent at coexisting with non-aggressive species and enjoy active, social tanks.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Zebra Loaches are omnivorous scavengers, constantly foraging the substrate for food.

Ideal diet includes:

• Sinking pellets and wafers

• Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)

• Live worms (tubifex, blackworms)

• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)

Feed 1–2 times daily, and make sure food reaches the bottom to ensure they eat enough.

🧼 Care Tips:

• Perform regular water changes (25–30%) to maintain quality

• Provide multiple hiding places to make them feel secure

• Keep tank well-covered—though not notorious jumpers, they may explore

• Use soft substrate to protect their sensitive barbels

• Watch for signs of Ich—like most loaches, they’re prone to it

Zebra Loaches are hardy when provided with stable water and a peaceful, well-decorated environment.

🌿 Why Choose the Zebra Loach (Botia striata)?

Botia striata is the perfect loach for aquarists seeking a calm, active, and visually striking bottom dweller. Its zebra-like stripes, gentle personality, and community compatibility make it a fantastic addition to planted tanks or any peaceful freshwater aquarium.

Bring life to the lower levels of your tank—add Zebra Loaches today!