Yoyo Loach (Botia almorhae)

Yoyo Loach (Botia almorhae)

Description:
The Yoyo Loach, also known as the Pakistani Loach, is a fascinating bottom-dwelling fish recognized for its unique, maze-like black markings on a silver body, which can resemble the word "yoyo." This playful species is known for its lively behavior, making it a popular choice for aquarists seeking an active and engaging fish.

Size:
Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

Aquarium Size:
A minimum of 40 gallons is recommended due to their adult size and need for swimming space. Larger tanks are ideal for groups.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)

• pH: 6.0 to 7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderate

Temperament:
Yoyo Loaches are semi-aggressive but generally peaceful when kept in proper groups. They can become nippy toward slower or long-finned tankmates when kept in smaller numbers.

Group Size:
Best kept in groups of 5 or more. Larger groups help distribute minor aggression and encourage natural schooling behavior.

Compatibility:
Yoyo Loaches can be kept with other medium-sized, peaceful species such as tetras, barbs, rainbowfish, and larger corydoras. Avoid keeping them with very small or delicate fish as they can be a bit boisterous.

Diet:
Omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet including sinking pellets, algae wafers, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small snails. They are known for their pest snail-eating abilities, making them a practical addition for controlling snail populations.

Care Level:
Intermediate. Yoyo Loaches require good water quality and proper social groupings for optimal health and behavior.

Planted Aquarium:
They can be kept in planted aquariums but may uproot delicate plants while foraging. Choose hardier species like Anubias and Java Fern or plants that can be attached to rocks and driftwood.

Invertebrate Compatibility:
Not ideal for tanks with small invertebrates like shrimp, as they may prey on them. Yoyo Loaches are known for their ability to eat pest snails and may also target larger snails.

Additional Notes:
Yoyo Loaches are active diggers and appreciate soft, sandy substrates that allow them to sift and burrow without damaging their delicate barbels. They are also known to be curious and may investigate tank decor frequently.

Disclaimer:
Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.