The Zipper Loach (Acanthocobitis zonalternans) is a lively and attractive bottom-dwelling fish known for its distinctive “zipper” stripe running laterally along its body. Reaching around 5cm, it’s a medium-sized loach ideal for planted or river-style aquariums with gentle to moderate flow. Its unique markings, peaceful nature, and constant foraging behavior make it a delightful addition to any well-established tank.

Native to the freshwater streams of India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, the Zipper Loach thrives in cool, oxygen-rich water with a sandy or fine gravel substrate and plenty of hiding spaces. While not as shy as some loaches, it still appreciates tank mates and natural decor to feel secure.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Acanthocobitis zonalternans

• Common Name: Zipper Loach

• Size: Up to 5cm

• Temperament: Peaceful, active, bottom-dweller

• Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Tank Zone: Bottom

• Best kept in groups of 3–6 for social behavior

🌊 Water Conditions

Zipper Loaches do best in cool, clean water with gentle current and natural décor.

• Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: 3–10 dGH

• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum (30+ for larger groups)

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Filtration: Gentle flow with high oxygenation

• Lighting: Low to moderate

• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, caves, and plants for cover

They prefer dim or dappled light, mimicking their streamside habitat.

🐟 Tank Mates

Zipper Loaches are peaceful and can be housed with a wide variety of non-aggressive community fish.

Ideal companions:

• Small rasboras and danios

• Peaceful tetras

• Corydoras catfish

• Dwarf gouramis

• Freshwater snails and shrimp (in well-fed setups)

Avoid:

• Large or aggressive cichlids

• Fin-nipping barbs

• Species that dominate the bottom zone aggressively

🍽️ Feeding Habits

As omnivorous scavengers, Zipper Loaches enjoy a mix of proteins and plant matter. They are bottom-feeders and constantly graze throughout the day.

Recommended diet:

• Sinking pellets and algae wafers

• Frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Live blackworms or tubifex

• Blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach

Feed once or twice a day, and make sure food reaches the bottom where they can access it easily.

🧼 Care Tips:

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

• Use a soft substrate to protect their sensitive barbels

• Provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress

• Keep a tight-fitting lid—they may jump if startled

• Ensure good oxygen levels through surface agitation or air stones

They are hardy fish when kept in stable, clean environments.

🌿 Why Choose Zipper Loaches?

With their unique patterning, active yet peaceful demeanor, and compatibility with planted setups, Zipper Loaches are an excellent choice for aquarists who want a visually interesting bottom dweller that thrives in groups and helps clean up leftover food.

Add motion, pattern, and personality to your aquarium—choose Zipper Loaches today!