Safe water level for loaches - open topped aquarium

[bru]

Hi, I'm new to Loaches online, but great site and forum! I'm planning an aquarium for the not too distant future, and I'd like to leave open-topped if possible. I currently have a 30 gal almost cube, 21" x 21" x 18.5". I'd like to house zebra loaches and some sort of rasbora or danio for a dither fish.

I know both fish can jump, so is an open top aquarium feasible if I leave the water level, say 2" from the top? What have experiences been with open top aquaria and loaches?

Thanks,

Bruce

[plaalye]

I have my striata in a 75gal. open top and haven't had any problems. they rarely leave the bottom. I have found a few of the neons on the carpet however.
I personally wouldn't put botias in a tank with that footprint, not enough room to roam. I think would be 36" minimum, see what others have to say?