Zebra Loach

The Zebra Loach is a striking and peaceful loach species with beautiful alternating dark and light stripes that resemble a zebra pattern. Native to India, these small loaches reach only 3.5-4 inches, making them suitable for medium-sized community tanks unlike their larger cousins. They are active, social fish that should be kept in groups of 5+ and are excellent for controlling pest snails. They are more peaceful than some other loach species and make excellent community tank residents.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Zebra Loaches need soft substrate and hiding spots.

Essential Setup:

• 30+ gallons minimum
• Sand or fine gravel
• Hiding spots: Caves, driftwood
• Plants okay
• Moderate filtration
• Temperature 73-79°F

Water Quality

• Temperature: 73-79°F (23-26°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft (2-10 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Omnivores that eat snails:

• Sinking pellets
• Frozen foods
• Snails: Natural food
• Vegetables

Behavior & Compatibility

Peaceful and social:

• Schooling: Keep 5+ minimum
• Peaceful: Good community fish
• Active: Constantly moving
• Snail control: Eat pest snails

Good Tank Mates:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Gouramis
• Corydoras
• Peaceful community fish

Size Advantage

• Adult size: Only 3.5-4 inches
• Appropriate for: 30+ gallon tanks
• Unlike: Clown loaches (need huge tanks)

Special Behaviors

• Striped pattern: Beautiful zebra stripes
• Active: More visible than some loaches
• Snail eating: Good for pest control
• Clicking: Make quiet clicking sounds

Breeding

Not bred in home aquariums:

• Commercial hormone breeding
• Egg layers
• Difficult to sex

Tips for Success

• Keep in groups of 5+
• Use soft substrate
• Provide hiding spots
• Good snail control
• Perfect size for medium tanks
• More peaceful than Yoyo loaches