Bengal loach - Botia dario
Scientific name: Botia dario
Common name: Bengal loach
Family: Cobitidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 15 cm (3.94 - 5.91 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 12°N (142.86 - 214.29ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: South Asia
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful
Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels
Food and feeding
Bengal loach is omnivorous, it will accept all quality flakes and pellets, twice a week treat with blood worms or brine shrimp. Zucchini and cucumber is loved by this fish as is added vegetable matter to the diet.
Origin
Bengal loaches originate from India and Bangladesh.
Sexing
There are no visible differences; it is believed that the females may be plumper, but yet to be proven.
Breeding
There are no reported cases of Bengal Loach breeding in the aquarium.
Lifespan
Expected life span of 5-8 years.
Short description
Bengal loaches are a social fish so do better in small groups. The substrate should be rounded gravel or fine sand to protect their barbels. Like most scale less fish they are prone to white spot so the keeper needs to be observant when housing this species.Hiding places should be added to the tank to prevent shyness and once settled in they should be active all of the time.