Yoyo Loach

Yoyo Loach (Botia Almorhae)

The Yoyo Loach, also known as Almora Loach and Pakistani Loach, is a fascinating freshwater fish that captivates aquarists with its distinctive coloration and active behavior. Its body is adorned with a unique pattern of dark and light bands, often forming a "Y-O-Y-O" pattern, hence the name. This loach's coloration can vary from silver to tan, with dark gray or black markings.

Yoyo Loaches are known for their playful and curious personalities. They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their surroundings, often burrowing in the substrate. These loaches grow up to 6 inches in size and prefer to be kept in schools of at least 5 to feel secure.

Yoyo Loaches are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tank mates. However, they may nip at the fins of slow-moving, long-finned fish. They are not fin nippers by nature, but their active and curious nature can sometimes lead to such behavior.

When it comes to diet, Yoyo Loaches are omnivores. They enjoy a varied diet of high-quality flake food, sinking pellets, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They also appreciate occasional vegetable matter in their diet.

Yoyo Loaches are curious creatures and appreciate a tank with plenty of hiding spots that closely resemble their natural environment. They prefer a soft, sandy substrate for burrowing and plenty of hiding spots in the form of smooth rocks, caves, and driftwood. Try using a combination of smooth rocks, wood, flowerpots, and aquarium ornaments to create an engaging and secure environment. However, be mindful to avoid decor with sharp edges, as Yoyo Loaches like to explore and squeeze into small spaces. Fill any small gaps or holes that could trap the fish with aquarium-grade silicone sealant. A secure, tight-fitting cover is crucial as these loaches have been known to jump.

Subdued lighting suits these loaches, and you can introduce plants that thrive in such conditions, but ensure they are sturdy as Yoyo Loaches are active diggers. Java fern (Microsorum pteropus), 'Java' moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri), or Anubias species are good choices. These plants can be attached to decor pieces, providing valuable shade and enhancing the natural feel of the tank.

While Yoyo Loaches don't require turbulent water conditions, they do thrive in well-oxygenated water with some flow. They are sensitive to the accumulation of organic waste and need pristine water conditions to thrive. Therefore, they should not be introduced to new or biologically immature aquariums; they adapt best to stable, mature aquariums. Regular maintenance is key, with weekly water changes of 30-50% of the tank volume considered standard practice.

Yoyo Loaches requires an aquarium of at least 30 gallons, with the ideal community aquarium size being 40 gallons or more. They require clean water with a pH of 6.5-7.5, hardness of 5-12 dGH, and a temperature of 75-86°F (24-30°C).