Care
The Black Lined Loach is a peaceful shoaling species, suited to well-filtered mature softwater aquaria. Unfortunately, it is not exported all that often, but it is a loach well worth looking out for. A group of 5 specimens would be considered the absolute minimum number to keep, as they are highly social creatures and do best in large congregations. The natural habitat of this species are the clear fast-flowing waters of the Mekong basin, where the substrate is sandy, the water temperature relatively cool, and the oxygen saturation levels high. This environment should be simulated as closely as possible in the home aquarium with the tank (at least 4ft long) being filtered via good sized external filter/s and extra powerheads added to create strong currents. The substrate should consist of soft sand or fine rounded gravel in order to protect the delicate sensory barbels, with flat stones, cobbles, rocky caves and bogwood pieces all added in to create a river bed effect. The addition of such decor will also provide much appreciated shady hiding spots and areas of slightly calmer water for the fish to retreat to should they feel the need. Plants can also be used, but they must be of a robust nature in order to cope with the fast flow and high O2 levels. The addition of a blue moon light to the aquarium will be beneficial for observations, as Black Lined Loaches are often more active in the evenings and feel much more comfortable venturing out under dimmer lighting. As for all Botiine loaches, partial water changes should be carried out on a regular frequent basis in order to prevent the build up of nitrates. Tankmates should be of a peaceful nature and also suited to a high-flow environment with slightly cooler-than-average temperatures. Many members of the Barb and Danio families are great candidates, as are various Hillstream Loaches, and small torrent catfish. Juvenile Black Lined Loaches are sometimes confused with adult Dwarf Chain Loaches (A. sidthimunki).
Feeding
Sinking catfish pellets, micropellets, sinking granular foods, algae wafers, cucumber, frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, daphnia etc. Will eat snails.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium.
