Description

Yo-Yo Loach (Botia almorhae)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Botia almorhae

• Family: Botiidae

• Origin: India, Nepal, Pakistan

• Size: 5 – 6 inches (12 – 15 cm)

• Lifespan: 8 – 12 years

• Tank Zone: Bottom to mid-level

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 150 – 250 ppm

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

• Hardness: 4 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Named after their body markings that resemble the letters “YO-YO.”

• Active, playful, and intelligent loach species.

• Can make clicking sounds while eating or interacting.

• Semi-peaceful, but may nip fins if kept alone.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous.

• Diet: Sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, snails (they love eating pest snails), blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach).

• Feeding: Twice daily in small amounts.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 40 gallons (larger is better).

• Filtration: Strong filter with good oxygen flow.

• Decor: Sand or smooth gravel substrate, caves, driftwood, plants, hiding spots.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: At least 5 (they are social and establish pecking order).

• Tank Mates: Tetras, Barbs, Gouramis, Corydoras, Rainbowfish, other loaches.

• Avoid: Aggressive Cichlids, Betta, or very slow long-finned fish.

✅ Do’s

• Keep in groups – prevents aggression.

• Provide plenty of hiding places.

• Give them snails as a natural food source.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep a single Yo-Yo Loach (they become aggressive or stressed).

• Don’t house with delicate fish that can’t handle their activity.

• Don’t use sharp gravel (they like to dig).

⭐ Quick Tips

• Energetic, playful loach – fun to watch in groups.

• Excellent snail hunters and scavengers.

• Best for medium to large community aquariums.