fish · Botiidae
Polka-dot loach
Botia kubotai
Wild range: Salween / Ataran headwaters (Myanmar–Thailand border) (Asia)
At a glance: Polka-dot loach care
Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.
What temperature is listed for Polka-dot loach?
The compiled profile lists 22.0–28.0 °C for Polka-dot loach (Botia kubotai). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.
What tank size is listed for Polka-dot loach?
The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 55.0 US gallons (200.0 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.
What pH is listed for Polka-dot loach?
The compiled profile lists a pH of 6.0–7.5. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.
Where they are found
This species is native to Myanmar and thrives in areas with a good mix of small substrates and low to moderate water flow.
Aquarium care
In the aquarium, provide a spacious setup with rocky areas and sufficient swimming space. Water conditions should mimic its natural habitat: medium lighting, moderate flow, and soft, slightly acidic to neutral pH. It thrives in groups, so a minimum of five should be kept together for companionship.
Feeding
Varied diet of quality dried foods, live/frozen bloodworm, Tubifex, Artemia, plus fruit/vegetables (cucumber, melon, spinach, courgette). May eat snails but not an obligate molluscivore.
Compatibility
Not especially aggressive; avoid much smaller fish and long-finned slow species. Keep 5–6+ (preferably 10+) Botia together. Compatible with peaceful open-water cyprinids and other loaches in large tanks.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is challenging but can be achieved in good conditions. It typically involves creating a spawning area and optimizing water parameters to trigger breeding behavior.
Sources
Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.