Syncrossus hymenophysa

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Banded Loach
Banded Loach
Species	Botia hymenophysa
Difficulty	Moderate
Min. Tank Size	208.198 liters 208,197.648 mL 55 US Gallons (208.2L)
Size	25.4 cm 9-10 " (22.9-25.4cm)
pH	6.5 - 7.0
Temp.	298.15 K 25 °C 536.67 °R 303.15 K 30 °C 545.67 °R77 -86 °F (25-30°C)
Water Hardness	6-12
Stocking Ratio	2:3 M:F
Availability	Uncommon
Diet	Omnivore Pellet Foods Live Foods Other (See article)
Life Span	5-7 years

[edit] Alternative names

Banded Loach, Tiger loach, Tiger Botia, Green Tiger Loach

[edit] Other Scientific Names

Botia hymenophysa, Cobitis hymenophysa

[edit] Origin

Rivers and lakes in Borneo and Sumatra, Indonesia.

[edit] Sexing

Mature females have a rounder abdomen. Not known to be bred in captivity.

[edit] Tank compatibility

A large loach, this fish is best kept in a species set up as it can be aggressive. Will benefit being in groups of 5 or more to spread this aggression. Larger, fast swimming tough tankmates can be considered such as the larger species of Danio and Barb. Will also live with other larger loaches such as the Botia helodes, Botia berdmorei and Botia morleti.

[edit] Diet

Will accept sinking pellets as well as frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mosquito larvae.

[edit] Feeding regime

Twice a day.

[edit] Environment Specifics

A large spacious tank, 4ft minimum with view to upgrade, with fine soft substrate so as to not damage their barbels.

[edit] Behaviour

Aggressive and form a heirarchy in a group.

[edit] Identification

Can be easily mistaken with Botia helodes, the difference being the direction of stripes in front of the dorsal fin, the stripes start at the dorsal base and go down finishing inclined towards the head of the fish. It's the other way round on Botia helodes.

[edit] Pictures

[edit] External links

• Loaches.com
• Fishbase