Yo-Yo Loach (Botia almorhae) Care Guide
Active, gregarious loach from the Ganges drainage with a distinctive Y-O-Y-O body pattern. Effective snail predator but requires groups of five or more and a spacious tank.
Overview
Botia almorhae is a medium-sized loach in the family Botiidae, popular for its silvery body marked with dark bands and rings that often resemble the letters Y-O-Y-O. Note that many fish sold under this name in the trade actually belong to closely related species such as B. lohachata.
Taxonomy
- Family: Botiidae
- Genus: Botia
- Scientific name: Botia almorhae
Habitat
Restricted to parts of the Ganges River drainage in northern India and possibly Nepal. The species occurs in slow-running and still waters of tributaries such as the Kosi, Yamuna, Alaknanda and Chambal rivers, despite the misleading common name Pakistani Loach.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- School size: at least 5 individuals
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Adult size: 10-13 cm
Diet
Primarily carnivorous, feeding on aquatic molluscs, insects and worms. Accepts quality dried foods, frozen and live bloodworm, Tubifex and Artemia, plus occasional fresh fruit and vegetables. Although it preys on snails, it should not be regarded as a complete solution to infestations.
Compatibility
Gregarious and socially complex; groups of at least five or six, preferably ten, are needed to dissipate aggression. Suitable companions include Tiger Barb, Cherry Barb, Corydoras and Bristlenose Pleco. Small shrimp and tiny snails are likely to be eaten.
Breeding
Breeding in home aquaria has not been reliably documented. Commercial production typically relies on hormonal induction in specialised facilities.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2020).