Common name: Blue loach, Orange finned loach

Scientific name: Botia modesta

Family: Cobitidae

Scientific name: Botia modesta

Origins: Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam

Feeding: Omnivorous. Supplement with frozen shrimp, sinking pellets, vegetables.

Maximum size: 10-12" though usually smaller in captivity.

Lifespan: Possibly 10 years or greater.

Recommended tank conditions: At least 55g, with a soft or small-grained substrate, lots of caves/driftwood hiding places.

Mix with semi-aggressive species that have similar requirements. This loach will do best in groups of 4 or more, and can get very aggressive alone. In larger groups, will cohabitate nicely with yo-yo loaches and clown loaches. Will dig a lot so live planted tanks are probably not an option. Has three sets of barbels. Like other Botia species, there is a sharp spine located below the eye which the fish will errect when handled or netted. This can inflict quite bad cuts to the unwary and get tangled in nets, so beware trying to handle these fish. Will occasionally do strange things like sleep on their side or leap into a HOB filter.

Another Close Up of the Blue Loach