More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 370 litres / 97.74 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 30.0cm / 11.81inches |
| Temperature | 24°C / 75.20°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
Behaviour
Banded Tiger Loaches can display belligerent behavior and are not recommended to be housed with significantly smaller fish due to potential intimidation from their size and active nature. They should also not be kept with slow-moving, long-finned species to prevent fin nipping. Suitable tank mates include fast-moving pelagic cyprinids like Devario, Rasbora, and Danio species. It is advised to keep them in groups of at least 5-6 specimens to maintain their social hierarchy; when kept singly, they can become aggressive.
Feeding and Diet
Banded Tiger Loaches are known to be carnivorous but will also consume vegetative matter, such as soft-leaved aquatic plants. Their diet should consist of a variety of foods, including quality dried products, live or frozen bloodworms, Artemia, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Chopped earthworms and gel-based foods are also recommended protein sources. They may prey on aquatic snails but should not be relied upon as the sole method of control. They are bold feeders once acclimated to the aquarium environment.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
There is limited information on the breeding of Banded Tiger Loaches in captivity, but they are presumed to be seasonal migratory spawners in their natural habitat. Adult females are expected to be stockier and possibly larger than males. Further sexual dimorphism characteristics have yet to be documented.
Habitat and Distribution
Commonly found in flowing waters of various sizes, Banded Tiger Loaches inhabit habitats ranging from small headwater streams to main river channels. During the wet season, they migrate to flooded areas for feeding and spawning. Their distribution spans the Mekong drainage in Laos, Cambodia, southern Vietnam, and Thailand, including the Chao Phraya and Mae Khlong river systems in Thailand. The species exhibits variations in body color and patterning based on locality.
Aquarium Setup
Banded Tiger Loaches require a well-structured aquarium setup with ample hiding spots and cover. A natural-style design with sand or fine gravel substrate, smooth rocks, driftwood, and hardy plants like Anubias is suitable. It is essential to provide a tightly-fitting cover as these loaches may jump. They thrive in well-oxygenated water with moderate flow and require regular maintenance with weekly water changes to ensure a clean environment.