Family: Cobitidae
A smaller semi-aggressive carnivore cobitidae from China's Yangtze and Pearl rivers, the Golden Zebra Loach does best in groups of three or more — moderate care.
A Cobitidae species: Sinibotia pulchra lives bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+ over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Semi-aggressive. Adults reach 7–10 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Sinibotia species we profile, alongside Sinibotia robusta, Sinibotia reevesae, Sinibotia superciliaris.
A moderate-level species: semi-aggressive; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Hold 22–26 °C and keep it stable — 22–26 °C recorded range. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily.
Expect 7–10 cm as an adult, living bottom; rests and forages low; keep 3+. A 100 L tank or larger gives it room.
Carnivore; quality prepared foods with variety; regular frozen or live foods. It forages naturally over fine sand, so let some food reach the bottom.
Semi-aggressive. Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.
Native to 中国长江、珠江水系, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Strong current with heavy aeration; Average oxygen needs.
In the aquarium: spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.