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Zipper Loach
Acanthocobitis botia
Also known as Sand Loach, Mottled Loach
Animalia›Chordata›Cypriniformes›Nemacheilidae
The Zipper Loach is a small, peaceful bottom-dwelling loach native to Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive spotted pattern and active foraging behavior. These social fish are best kept in groups and spend most of their time searching the substrate for food. They are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for intermediate aquarists.
Where it's from
Native to the Aghnashini, Bedti, Chao Phraya, Ganges and 8 other river basins
India, Thailand, Nepal, Pakistan and Myanmar (Burma)
At a glance
- Size
- 3 in
- 8 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal
- 76 L
- Group
- 3+
- Temp
- 75–82°F
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 89–214 ppm
- 5–12 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Zipper Loaches are omnivorous bottom feeders that consume small invertebrates, algae, and organic debris. Provide sinking pellets, algae wafers, and occasional live foods such as bloodworms or daphnia 2-3 times weekly. They will also graze on biofilm and leftover food in the substrate.
Behavior
These loaches are active nocturnal foragers that spend most of their time searching the substrate for food using their barbels. They are social fish that exhibit schooling behavior and should be kept in groups of at least 3 to reduce stress. They are generally peaceful but may occasionally chase smaller fish or shrimp.
Breeding
Breeding Zipper Loaches in captivity is difficult and rarely achieved in home aquariums. They require specific water conditions and seasonal temperature changes to trigger spawning. Successful breeding typically occurs only in large, heavily planted tanks with minimal disturbance.
Tank mates
See all 5Small peaceful fish that occupy different water zones
Similar bottom-dwelling loach with compatible temperament and requirements
Peaceful mid-water dweller that won't compete for bottom space
Small peaceful algae eater with similar substrate preferences
Peaceful schooling fish that occupy middle water column
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Bacterial Infection, Parasitic Infection
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, rubbing against objects
Increase water temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), use ich medication, perform water changes, ensure good filtration
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, use antibacterial medication, remove sharp decorations
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, behavioral changes
Use broad-spectrum antibacterial medication, maintain pristine water conditions, isolate affected fish if possible
Parasitic Infection
Excessive scratching, weight loss, visible parasites on skin, clamped fins
Use antiparasitic medication, perform water changes, quarantine new fish before introduction
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).
At a glance
- Size
- 3 in8 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal76 L
- Group
- 3+
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 89–214 ppm5–12 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
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