More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 80 litres / 21.13 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 8.0cm / 3.15inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Hardness | 5.04dgH / 90ppm - 15.02dgH / 268ppm |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
Behaviour:
The Black-Lined Loach, also known as Ambastaia Nigrolineata, is mild in temperament, making it a suitable addition to community aquariums. It is recommended to avoid slow-moving or long-finned fishes as tankmates. These loaches form complex social hierarchies, best kept in groups of at least 5 or 6 individuals, preferably more. They require regular contact with conspecifics to prevent aggression or withdrawal. In captivity, they exhibit various behavioral rituals, like dominance battles leading to "greying out," where fish lose body patterning. Ambastaia spp. display a degree of personality, with some being naturally bolder or more aggressive than others. They communicate through audible clicking sounds and engage in unusual behaviors like "shadowing" and the "loachy dance," swimming restlessly around the tank. However, scientific studies on their behavior are limited.
Feeding and Diet:
Black-Lined Loaches are chiefly carnivorous but also consume vegetative matter. Offering them a varied diet is essential, including quality dried products, live or frozen foods like bloodworms and Artemia, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Homemade foods bound with gelatin are recommended. While they prey on aquatic snails, they should not be relied upon for snail control. These loaches are bold feeders and rise into midwater during mealtimes.
Reproduction:
Information on the reproduction of Ambastaia Nigrolineata is currently unrecorded.
Dimorphism:
Sexually mature females of Ambastaia Nigrolineata are fuller-bodied and slightly larger than males. Adult males develop elongated snouts and thickened lips.
Habitat and Distribution:
Found in the Lancang Jiang in southern China, near Laos's Mekong River, and the Nan River in Thailand, Ambastaia Nigrolineata inhabits small creeks with sandy bottoms and moderate currents. They are generally found in clear water stretches of riffles and various stream habitats. Indications of migration patterns like other members of the genus remain inconclusive.
Aquarium Setup:
An 80-liter tank or larger is ideal for Ambastaia Nigrolineata. Setting up the aquarium with well-structured decor is crucial. Providing hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and plants suitable for low light is recommended. As inquisitive fish, they enjoy exploring, requiring a variety of decor elements. These loaches prefer well-oxygenated water with moderate flow and pristine conditions. Regular water changes and a tight-fitting cover to prevent jumping are essential in maintaining their habitat. Weekly water changes of 30-50% tank volume are recommended for their upkeep.