Dwarf chain loach

The dwarf chain loach is a small, active loach of the family Botiidae, native to the Mekong and Mae Klong basins of Thailand and neighboring Southeast Asia. It has a slender golden-yellow body marked with a broken chain-like pattern of dark blotches running along the flanks. Unusually sociable for a loach, it is a peaceful, highly gregarious fish that must be kept in groups of at least six to feel secure and display natural playful behavior. It is diurnal and constantly explores the lower and middle water levels. A well-planted tank with fine substrate, driftwood, and hiding places suits it. Clean, oxygen-rich water is important. It eats small live and frozen foods, sinking pellets, and helps control nuisance snails. Captive breeding is rare and difficult. The species has faced collection pressure in the wild.