ZIPPER LOACH (Acanthocobitis botia)

Care

In the wild Zipper Loaches inhabit fast flowing clear streams, brooks and rivers, so within the aquarium they will appreciate well-filtered water with a fairly high flow rate. As a social species, they do best when housed in small groups of 5 or more specimens, and will often be seen congregating together. The substrate should consist of fine smooth sand or fine rounded gravel, and there should be shady areas provided in the form of rocky caves, bogwood and plants. Flat stones and cobbles will further add to the river bed effect. Additional powerheads are recommended in addition to filter outputs in order to create the desired level of flow. Ideally the tank will be at least 3ft long. Zipper Loaches are generally very peaceful and can be kept as part of a community of current-loving fishes.

Feeding

Sinking catfish pellets/tablets, algae wafers, small frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, and daphnia.

Breeding

This species has been bred in captivity, although most spawnings have been "happy accidents". In the wild, Zipper Loaches spawn from May to June and up to 150 eggs are scattered per spawning. A substrate which incorporates an area of marbles or larger rounded gravel will give any eggs/fry a chance to develop in safety.