Tiger Botia - Botia helodes

Species name: Botia helodes

Synonym: None

Common Names: Tiger botia

Family: Cobitidae (Loaches) subfamily: Botiinae

Order: Cypriniformes (carps)

Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)

Max. size: 30 cm / 12 inches

Environment: Freshwater

Origin: Asia. Mekong, Chao Phraya and Meklong basins; also from the northern Malay Peninsula.

Temperament: Aggressive.

Company: Can be kept in a community aquarium with bigger fishes.

Water parameters: pH 6.0-6.5, temperature 24-30°C / 75-84 ° F

Aquarium setup: Nocturnal. This species is best kept in a well planted slightly dimmed aquarium. Plants have to be planted in pots otherwise the botia will dig them up. Use hardy plants. This species is easily spooked and creating an environment where they feel save is important. Decorate the aquarium so that a lot of hiding places are created among rots, rocks and flowerpots. Use a fine bottom material since this species enjoys digging. Floating plants can be used too dim the light. Sensitive to poor water quality and thus are regular water changes required.

Feeding: Accepts only small living and frozen food.

Breeding: Unknown

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