Scientific name: Botia histrionica (Blyth, 1860)
Common name: Burmese Loach, Golden Zebra Loach, Silver Striped Loach
Synonyms: None
Distribution: India, Burma: the Salween basin. May occur in western Thailand
Sexual dimorphism: unknown
Maximum size: 5 inches (13 cm)
Similar to: Immature specimens can be confused with B. kubotai, B. almorhae, and B. rostrata. With maturity, each species takes on more distinctive colour and patterning.
Care: This is a relatively placid member of the genus Botia. Gregarious and curious, they are well suited to the community tank, but should be kept in numbers of 3 to 5 or more. Unlike a number of other Botia species, B. histrionica will be seen more regularly in the daytime if given ample hiding spots, a large aquarium (minimum 60 gallons, but larger tanks will see more activity), and the clean water that suits other Botiine loaches.
Feeding: Readily accepts quality flake food, sinking wafers, fresh vegetables, brine shrimp, bloodworms, etc... Not a finicky eater.
Water parameters: pH 6.5 - 7.2; Hardness: softer water. Max dh:
Temperature: 77-82F (25-28C)
Breeding: Not known to breed in the aquarium. Even cases of females becoming gravid are very rare.