Botia lohachata - Striped loach (Asia)

Originally from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, the reticulated loach (Botia lohachata) lives in freshwater streams with currents.

Reticulated loaches have black and white tiger-like coloring. With a lifespan of at least 10 years, they can reach up to 15 cm in size, and a good-sized aquarium is necessary for these very active schooling fish.

With a smooth appearance, Botias have very small scales that are not visible to the naked eye. Note that Botias have two curved spines under their eyelids that serve as a defense against predators. Be cautious when handling them, as their stings are considered painful.

A 250L aquarium is the minimum for this species with social habits.

They are voracious eaters of invertebrates (notably snails and shrimp), so do not keep them with invertebrates in the aquarium.