Golden Chinese Loach

About

Known in the trade as the golden Chinese loach or 12-banded Chinese loach, Sinibotia robusta is one of the more commonly imported members of its genus, often arriving alongside its close relative S. pulchra in mixed batches collected from the same waters in China and Vietnam. What sets it apart from other Sinibotia species is its noticeably deeper, more compact body. Less sinuous than its cousins, built more like a robust wedge. Juveniles typically show around six dark vertical bars on the flanks, but these tend to split and multiply as the fish grows into adulthood. This is a nocturnal animal, most active around dusk and into the evening, and during the day it will seek out shaded spots or hides. Despite its tendency to lay low, it is peaceful toward most tankmates and does well in a community built around fast-moving mid-water cyprinids. The key to keeping it well is numbers. Sinibotia are social fish that form complex hierarchies within the group, and a minimum of three or four individuals is strongly recommended. Singletons or pairs can become withdrawn or start pestering similarly shaped fish. One practical note worth knowing: like other botiids, this species carries retractable spines below the eyes that can snag nets, so a soft landing net and careful handling are worth the effort.