Angelicus Loach (Burmese Border Loach)

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to the border rivers between Myanmar and Thailand, specifically the Salween River system. Inhabits shaded streams with clear, fast, highly oxygenated water and substrates of gravel or round rocks.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Burmese Border Loach (Botia kubotai). Described recently (2004) in honor of Katsuma Kubota. Very similar to B. histrionica, but develops an intricate light net pattern on a blackish background with age. Tapered body, equipped with a subocular spine.

Social Behavior: Extremely intelligent and interactive, but needs to live in a hierarchical group (min. 5 specimens). They form complex social dynamics, sleep together in a single tube and often rest lying on one side, appearing dead (normal behavior).

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Juveniles have large dark spots outlined in yellow, which in adulthood transform into a labyrinth of thin light lines on an almost black background, dotted or netted. Females in heat have a huge belly, males are slender.

Aquarium Setup: Long river aquarium (min. 120 cm / 48 inches). Fine sand is an absolute must. Fast-moving water, smooth rocks forming large cavities and woods. Dim light to indulge their shy and moderately nocturnal nature.

Diet and Feeding: Benthic omnivores, relentless with snails. Accept sinking carnivorous pellets, krill, bloodworms and brine shrimp, but need plant fiber: pieces of zucchini and spirulina wafers are highly appreciated.

Water Quality: Very demanding on dissolved oxygen. If the filter slows down or oxygen drops, they will hover near the pump outlet. Very low nitrates and weekly changes are necessary for a long life cycle (they live over 10 years).

Compatibility and Tankmates: They can bully slow or long-finned fish if they get bored. Ideal companions are large fast Cyprinids, Crossocheilus or Garra that live in the same high-energy environment.

Aquarium Reproduction: Totally absent. They are fish bred in fish farms (with the aid of hormonal induction). The conditions of their natural breeding environment are almost unknown to date.

Risks and Diseases: High risk of Ich if the temperature is not stable or during transport. The barbels are subject to permanent bacterial corrosion if the hygiene of the bottom sand is not guaranteed.