Polka-dot loach

The polka-dot loach is a freshwater loach of the family Botiidae, native to the Ataran and Salween river drainages of Myanmar and Thailand. It is a strikingly patterned botiid with a pale cream to bluish body covered in bold dark blotches and rings that give a polka-dot appearance. It is a social, active fish that must be kept in groups of at least five or six to reduce aggression and stress; kept singly it can become withdrawn or bully tankmates. It needs a spacious tank with clean, well-oxygenated water, smooth rounded rocks, caves and driftwood for shelter. It is an omnivore that takes sinking pellets, frozen and live foods, and will help control snail populations. Like other botiids it can produce audible clicking sounds and appreciates mature, stable water. Its bold pattern and playful group behavior make it a rewarding but active choice for larger community aquariums.