Redtail Botia (Yasuhikotakia modesta) Care Guide
Yasuhikotakia modesta, the blue or redtail botia, is a robust Mekong loach with a bluish body and red fins that needs a large tank and a group.
Overview
The Redtail Botia (Yasuhikotakia modesta), also called the blue botia, is a robust botiid loach with a bluish-grey body and red, orange or rarely yellow fins. It is active and social, forming hierarchies within groups, and like its relatives it produces audible clicking sounds. Milder in temperament than some of its relatives, it can still go through aggressive phases and may nip fins.
Taxonomy
- Family: Botiidae
- Genus: Yasuhikotakia
- Scientific name: Yasuhikotakia modesta
- Common synonyms: Botia modesta, Botia rubripinnis
Habitat
The species is widespread in eastern and central Indochina, mainly in the Mekong basin (including Tonlé Sap) and the Chao Phraya, Bang Pakong and Mae Klong systems of Thailand. It favours flowing waters and shelters among submerged rocks and tree roots during the day, foraging over the substrate.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 24-30 °C (75-86 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 5-15 °dGH
- Group size: 5 or more individuals (10+ preferred)
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Wild fish reach up to about 25 cm, although captive specimens rarely exceed roughly 18 cm; either way a spacious tank with strong filtration is required.
Diet
It is largely carnivorous. The species accepts bloodworm, Tubifex, Artemia and quality dried foods, along with fresh vegetables such as cucumber and spinach. It will prey on aquatic snails but is not an obligate snail eater and should not be relied on for pest control.
Compatibility
Best kept in a group of at least five or six, and preferably ten or more, to spread out social interactions; solitary fish can stress others. It suits active cyprinids and other robust bottom-dwellers. Slow, long-finned tankmates are best avoided as they may be harassed.