Loaches Online Forum

Hi there,

Firstly - wow looks a great forum - been having a bit of a peek around and thought I would join........

Wondered if any more knowledable members of the forum could help with a query that I have.

We have a pair of Pakistani / Yoyo loaches - that we have had for about 8 months in a planted Rio 180.

Yesterday was given a single Polka Dot loach - quite small -

Now various websites say that should be kept in a shoal? Does it have to be species specific or will all Botia get along ok? - Seems to be quite happy at the moment - palying in bubble streams and generally causing havoc with the 2 yoyos = but I don't want her pining for friends....


Many thanks


Fen

This saves me a post somewhere else I was going to suggest checking here. This is the best site for anything Loach related.

Hi fengibbon and welcome to Loaches Online.

If there is space in your tank, you really need to add more of both the Yoyo loaches (Botia almorhae) and the Polka dots (B. kubotai). All botiid loaches form incredibly complex social structures and really do need to be kept in groups of 5 or more of their own kind. You will find that if you only house two Yoyos together, as they mature, they will constantly argue and pick on one another whilst they try to decide who is boss (the Alpha loach). Adding more to the group will help to spread any aggression, and will be more natural for them. The same goes for the B. kubotai. You either need to add more of the same to bring the group up to 5+ or else rehome him/her with someone who already has a group. Keeping one is considered quite unfair, and although it may follow other similar species about from time to time, it's natural behaviour amongst a true shoal will be supressed. Keeping large sized groups of each species will not only benefit the loaches but it will also reward you because of the natural behaviour that you will get to observe.

Also, be aware that as many species of Botia mature, they often wreak havoc in a planted aquarium.

Hope this helps,

Emma