Yoyo loach
Botia almorhae
intermediate careOverview
The yoyo loach (Botia almorhae) is an active, inquisitive loach named for the “Y-O-Y-O” pattern its markings seem to spell out on young fish. Reaching 12–15 cm, it is a busy, playful character that constantly explores the tank, rearranges the substrate and hunts down snails. It is semi-social and does best in a group, where its natural pecking order spreads out its boisterous energy. Given space and company, the yoyo is a genuinely entertaining fish to watch.
Tank & water
A group of five needs at least 150 litres (40 gallons) — these are active, mid-sized fish. Keep 24–28 °C with strong filtration and good oxygenation, on stable water.
- Soft substrate: smooth sand or rounded gravel suits their foraging and barbels — see best aquarium sand and gravel and the substrate hub.
- Plenty of hides: caves, driftwood and rockwork give them territory and shelter.
- Room to roam: they are always on the move, so prioritise floor space — see how many fish in an aquarium.
Feeding
Yoyo loaches are omnivores with hearty appetites. Feed sinking pellets and wafers, frozen bloodworm and daphnia, and vegetables like courgette and de-shelled peas. They will also hunt small snails. A good sinking food is essential — see our best fish food picks.
Tankmates
Best with active, robust tankmates that can handle their energy — larger tetras, barbs, rainbowfish and rasboras. Avoid slow or long-finned fish they might nip, and delicate shrimp, which they may hunt. They mix well with peaceful bottom-dwellers like the bristlenose pleco, and with the smaller dwarf chain loach in a large enough tank.
Frequently asked questions
The yoyo loach is an active, characterful loach for a larger community. Give it a group, soft substrate, hiding spots and room to roam, and it will keep you entertained for a decade or more.
Yoyo loach — frequently asked questions
Do yoyo loaches eat snails?
Yes. Yoyo loaches actively hunt and eat small snails, making them a popular natural control for pest snail outbreaks. They still need a full diet of their own — sinking foods and vegetables — rather than relying on snails alone.
How many yoyo loaches should I keep?
Keep at least five. They are semi-social loaches that establish a loose pecking order and behave far better in a group — a single or pair can become nippy and stressed, while a group spreads out the activity.
Are yoyo loaches aggressive?
They are boisterous and playful rather than truly aggressive, but they can nip slow or long-finned fish and are best kept in a group with active, robust tankmates. Give them space, hides and company of their own kind.
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