These loaches are found in many river drainages of the Ganges, Ayeyarwady and Salween. It has been assessed as least concern because, although there are reports of a large decline in some habitats in Pakistan, but it is not thought to be a significant affect on a global scale. botia is listed on the IUCN Red LIst as Least Concern (LC). Most of the Zipper Loaches seen in the trade appear to originate from India. Although some have been described as distinct species over the years, all are considered at this time to represent a single species described as A. These numerous geographical forms have created some confusion. There are different colorations and body patterning with this species depending on the region where the loach resides. Other common names they are known by include Mottled Loach, Eye-Spot Loach, Spot Loach, Sand Loach, and Striped Loach. It is found in Asia especially India, Thailand, and China. The Zipper Loach Acanthocobitis botia (Syn: Noemacheilus Botia) was described by Hamilton in 1822. Coldwater Fish - Looking for cold water fish? (65 °).Similar size fish - Fish that are 1 inch bigger or smaller.Community Fish - Peaceful Freshwater fish.Beginner Fish - Freshwater fish for beginners.For Information on keeping freshwater fish, see:įreshwater Aquarium Guide: Aquarium Setup and Care Though most Hillstream loaches are best kept singly as they have a tendency to quarrel with others of their own species, this one has reportedly been kept with others of its own kind. They have been known to nip angelfish and gouramis who have longer fins. They are good for a community aquarium, but with reasonably robust tank mates. Zipper Loaches are hardy, personable, and generally peaceful. Plants are not necessary but they are appreciated. As they like to burrow, a substrate of sand or fine gravel is best.
Provide subdued lighting and be sure to provide plenty of hiding and resting places created with rocks and driftwood. The Zipper Loach is nocturnal and can be quite shy until it becomes acclimated. The only odd-ball name is Sand Loach, which probably comes from its preference for digging and hiding in soft substrates such as sand or fine gravel.
But as this loach grows its pattern stretches out and other distinctive names come into play, such as Mottled Loach or Striped Loach. It also has a unique 'eye-spot' on the top part at the base of the caudal fin, lending to the name Eye-Spot Loach or Spot Loach. When it is young as it looks like it is covered with a 'zipper' pattern. The most common name for this loach is Zipper Loach, but is described by many other common names, most of which are indicative of its looks. If well cared for it can also have an orange-red cast to its fins. The dorsal and tail fin have stripes made up of dark spots. It has a grayish green background color with a lighter, whitish belly and dark blotches on the sides and top. It is also a nice sized river loach reaching between 3 to 4 1/3 inches (10 - 12 cm) in length, though generally staying on the smaller size in the aquarium. The Zipper Loach Acanthocobitis botia is a beautiful, slender, elongated fish with a decorative pattern, especially as a juvenile.
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