Fish
Marble Loach
Botia lohachata
Origin: Southeast Asia — Sumatra, Borneo (Kalimantan), and adjacent Indonesian island regions
Also known as: Botia marmorata, Marbled Loach
Fact sheet
- Size
- 15 cm
- Lifespan
- 8 years
- Minimum tank size
- 150 L
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Hardness GH
- 5–15 °dH
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Social behavior
- Schooling
- Swimming zone
- Bottom
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Jumps out
- No
- Eats plants
- No
Varieties
Overview
Botia marmorata, the Marble Loach, is a large freshwater botiid fish endemic to the waterways of Sumatra and Borneo. The species was first described by Bleeker in 1852. Its common name refers to the distinctive marbled patterning — irregular dark blotches on a pale background, resembling the texture of marble. In nature it inhabits fast- to medium-flowing rivers with stony and gravelly beds. It is one of the largest members of the genus Botia, growing to approximately 30 cm, and therefore requires a spacious aquarium. An active, social species that needs group keeping of at least five individuals. Lifespan can reach 10–15 years in captivity. It is less frequently encountered in the aquarium trade than other loach species and typically commands a higher price.
Appearance
The body is large, elongated, and roughly cylindrical, reaching 25–30 cm. Colouration is cream-white to buff with characteristic irregular dark brown or grey blotches that form the marbled pattern. The blotches vary in shape and extent between individuals. The belly is paler. The inferior mouth bears several pairs of barbels. Sharp suborbital spines are present, typical of all Botia. Fins are translucent with dark patches near their bases.
Care
Given the large adult size, a tank of at least 300 litres is necessary. Substrate should be soft sand or fine gravel. Caves made of rocks and driftwood are essential for shelter. Good filtration and high oxygenation are required. Water parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, hardness 5–12 dGH. Weekly water changes of 25–30%. A tight-fitting lid is mandatory — these fish jump. Always keep in groups of five or more. Never introduce to a biologically immature aquarium.
Feeding
Omnivorous benthophages. In captivity they accept sinking pellets, catfish tablets, frozen bloodworm, Artemia, daphnia, and chopped seafood. Effective snail consumers in the aquarium. Vegetable supplements such as blanched cucumber and courgette are also accepted. Their large size allows them to take bigger food items than smaller loach species. Feed twice daily.
Compatibility
A large, active species compatible mainly with other large fish: big barbs, giant danios, labeo, and large loaches. Not suitable for keeping with small or delicate fish. Within the group a strict hierarchy is established, requiring abundant hiding spots. Towards other species it is generally tolerant given sufficient space.
Breeding
Breeding in home aquaria has not been documented. Like most large loaches, spawning likely requires conditions mimicking the wet season — changes in water level, temperature, and chemistry. Commercial production is practised on Southeast Asian fish farms using hormonal stimulation. No parental care is shown.
Fun facts
The Marble Loach is one of the largest Botia species, capable of reaching 30 cm, and requires an aquarium of at least 300 litres. The marbled pattern of each individual is unique and may shift slightly with age, analogous to a fingerprint.