Zebra Loach Tank SetupĪ well-planned tank setup plays a crucial role in maintaining a happy and healthy environment for your zebra loaches. A variety of food will ensure your zebra loach receives all the necessary nutrients for proper growth and health. Zebra loaches are omnivores, so a diet consisting of high-quality sinking pellets, supplemented with insect larvae, brine shrimp, and bloodworms is ideal. A siphon and bucket: For conducting water changes and maintaining your tank.Īdditionally, you’ll need a supply of fish food and supplements.Fishnet: For transferring or catching fish when needed.A water test kit: Monitor your water parameters to maintain a safe and healthy living space for your zebra loach.Live plants: Zebra loaches enjoy live plants for grazing, and plants like Java Fern and Anubias work well in their environment.Driftwood and rocks: Create hiding places and resting spots for your fish to feel secure.A mix of sand and fine gravel substrate: This provides an appropriate surface for your zebra loach to burrow in.A high-quality aquarium light: Ensure natural day-night cycles in your aquarium to mimic your fish’s natural habitat.A filter with adequate water flow: Zebra loaches appreciate a moderate water flow and a filter that can handle their bioload.A reliable heater and thermometer: Maintain a consistent water temperature between 73-79☏ (23-26☌).A minimum 20-gallon tank: Zebra loaches are active swimmers that require ample space to explore and glide.To ensure your zebra loach thrives in its new home, you’ll need the following supplies: When kept in the right conditions and with the proper care, these attractive and interesting fish make a wonderful addition to a community aquarium. They are very active during the day and love to burrow in the substrate, so providing a fine, smooth gravel or sand substrate is essential for their comfort and to prevent injuries.Īs a social species, Zebra Loaches are best kept in small groups of at least 5 to help prevent stress as they will feel safer in numbers. Zebra Loaches are benthic dwellers, meaning they primarily stay near the bottom of the tank. Shape: Elongated, semi-cylindrical body.Color: Black and white stripes running along the body.Size: Grows up to 3-4 inches in length.Here are the key features for identifying a Zebra Loach: Growing up to 3-4 inches long, with a lifespan of 5-8 years, Zebra loaches have an elongated, semi-cylindrical shape, displaying bold black and white stripes running along their body, giving them their unique and recognizable appearance.

Zebra Loach (Botia striata) is a small, peaceful, and attractively patterned freshwater fish originating from India and Bangladesh, which makes it an excellent choice for the beginner aquarist. Zebra Loach Species Profile and Identification As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links, which will earn us a commission.

Candy stripe zebra loach