YOYO LOACH | BOTIA LOHACHATA

The Yoyo Loach (Botia lohachata) is an energetic and intelligent freshwater fish known for its playful behavior and distinctive black-and-silver pattern that often resembles the word “YOYO” along its sides—giving it its popular name. Native to slow-moving streams and rivers of northern India, Nepal, and Pakistan, the Yoyo Loach is both beautiful and highly active, making it a favorite among aquarists who enjoy interactive, social fish.

Adults typically grow to about 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) and can live 8–10 years or longer with proper care. They’re most comfortable in groups of at least five or more, as they’re social fish that develop hierarchies and display entertaining group behaviors when kept together.

Ideal water parameters:
Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: 5–12 dGH

Tank setup: Yoyo Loaches need a tank of at least 40 gallons, with smooth gravel or sand substrate, plenty of hiding spots (driftwood, caves, rock tunnels), and strong filtration with moderate water flow. They’re excellent at squeezing into small spaces, so ensure all décor is secure with no sharp edges. Dim lighting and scattered plants make them feel at home. They’re also known for eating pest snails, making them great natural snail control.

Diet: They are omnivorous scavengers with hearty appetites. Offer a varied diet of sinking pellets or wafers, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms, and daphnia. They also enjoy blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

Temperament and tankmates: Yoyo Loaches are generally peaceful but can be a bit boisterous, especially during feeding or when establishing dominance. They do best with medium-sized, calm fish like tetras, barbs, gouramis, rainbowfish, and other loaches. Avoid slow or delicate species that may be stressed by their activity.

Behavior: They’re famous for their curiosity—they often “click” audibly using their pharyngeal teeth, explore the substrate together, and rest in amusing positions, even on their sides, which can alarm new owners.

In summary, the Yoyo Loach is a lively, social, and intelligent fish that adds personality and movement to a community aquarium. With their unique pattern, pest-eating habits, and playful behavior, they’re both useful and endlessly entertaining additions to a freshwater setup.