Species profile
Zebra Loach
Botia striata
Peaceful
Moderate care
180 L minimum aquarium
7–10 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Group and footprint matter more than the old 120 L headline figure.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–26 °C
pH
6–7
GH
3–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Snails
Bioload factor
1.5
One of the gentler Botia, but still a social loach that should be kept in a group of five or more.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
180 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Botia striata
Native range
Western Ghats, India.
Natural habitat
Clear flowing streams; provide fine sand, smooth rock/wood caves, strong filtration and high dissolved oxygen.
Diet & feeding
Varied sinking foods and frozen/live invertebrates; readily eats small snails.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females are usually fuller-bodied; external differences are otherwise subtle.
Breeding
Home-aquarium breeding is uncommon and not reliably established.