Zebra Loach
Zebra Loach (Botia striata) displays a beautiful pattern of narrow alternating dark brown and pale cream to yellowish vertical striping across the body — more numerous and finer-banded than most Botia species. The effect is clean and striking. This species belongs to the loach family that includes the Clown Loach — active, social, personable fish that are most rewarding in groups. They are entertaining community fish with genuine personality.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Sinking Wafers and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed a mix of sinking and slow-sinking foods — active loaches will find food throughout the tank.
Active, social loaches that form clear group hierarchies. Keep in groups of at least five — loaches kept alone or in pairs are significantly more stressed, less colorful, and more prone to disease than properly grouped fish. Fine, smooth sand substrate protects the sensitive barbels.
Compatible with most medium-sized, peaceful community fish. Active during the day and evening — more visible than the nocturnal Kuhli Loach group. Effective snail hunters that will tackle small and medium snails.
Social loaches develop genuine hierarchy and behavioral complexity in groups — watching them establish dominance, huddle together, and explore their territory is endlessly engaging.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — active social group |
| Typical Adult Size | 4.0 inches (10 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 5 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 75–86°F (24–30°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Sinking Wafers; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Western Ghats rivers, Karnataka, India |
| Notes | Finely striped — numerous narrow bands. Western Ghats endemic. IUCN Vulnerable — captive-bred stock preferred. Social — groups of 5+. |
