Loach-Pakistani(40-50mm)

All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.

When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.

ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.

Pakistani Loach (Botia histrionica)

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Body: Elongated and cylindrical with a smooth, flexible body.
  • Color: Light brown to golden with dark, contrasting horizontal stripes and spots.
  • Fins: High dorsal fin and long, flowing pectoral and pelvic fins.
  • Size: Typically grows up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length.
  • Distinctive Feature: The distinctive banding pattern and high dorsal fin give it an attractive and unique appearance.

• Behavior:

  • Activity: Active and playful, often seen exploring the substrate and interacting with tank mates.
  • Social Structure: Social fish that should be kept in groups to thrive. They exhibit schooling behavior and prefer the company of their own kind.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum: 30 gallons (115 liters). Larger tanks are preferable to accommodate their active nature and provide ample swimming and hiding space.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75-85°F (24-29°C). They prefer a warm and stable environment.
  • pH: 6.0-7.5. They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
  • Filtration: Efficient filtration is necessary to maintain water quality. Ensure the flow is not too strong, as they prefer moderate currents.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Soft, fine substrate such as sand or smooth gravel. They like to dig and root around, so a non-abrasive substrate is best.
  • Aquascaping: Provide hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and live plants. They appreciate having places to hide and explore.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. They are not particularly sensitive to lighting but enjoy a dimly lit environment with plenty of cover.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Omnivorous. Will eat a variety of foods including high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small invertebrates.
  • Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like small insects or chopped vegetables. They also enjoy sinking pellets or wafers.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other fish. Best kept with non-aggressive species.
  • Social Behavior: Prefer to be in groups of at least 3-5 individuals. They feel more secure and exhibit more natural behaviors when in groups.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are essential to maintain water quality and remove waste.
  • Cleaning: Clean the tank regularly, removing uneaten food and detritus. Maintain the filter and ensure it is not creating excessive current.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like unusual coloration or lesions.
  • Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if health issues arise. Common problems include skin infections, parasites, and fin rot.