Yo Yo Loach Care Guide: Behavior, Tank Mates & Buying Tips
Share
🐟 What Is a Yo Yo Loach?
The Yo Yo Loach (Botia almorhae) is a lively and social freshwater fish named for the unique "Y-O" pattern on its body. Native to the Ganges region in northern India and Nepal, Yo Yo Loaches are incredibly popular for community aquariums due to their active behavior and helpful appetite for snails.
At Rob's Aquatics, we offer healthy, active Yo Yo Loaches ready for peaceful community tanks.
📏 How Big Do Yo Yo Loaches Get?
-
Average adult size: 3–5 inches
-
Growth rate: Moderate
-
Lifespan: 5–8 years, up to 10 with proper care
They’re smaller than Clown Loaches, making them perfect for mid-sized tanks.
🏗️ Ideal Tank Setup for Yo Yo Loaches
-
Tank size: 30 gallons minimum (larger for groups)
-
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel (they love to dig)
-
Décor: Driftwood, caves, smooth stones, dense plants
-
Lighting: Moderate to low
-
Filtration: Clean, oxygen-rich water preferred
💡 Tip: Keep them in groups of at least 3–5 for best behavior and reduced stress.
🌡️ Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Hardness | Soft to moderate |
| Nitrates | < 30 ppm |
Regular water changes and a stable environment are essential for health.
🍽️ What Do Yo Yo Loaches Eat?
Yo Yo Loaches are omnivorous bottom feeders with a taste for protein and biofilm.
Diet Recommendations:
-
Sinking pellets and wafers
-
Bloodworms and brine shrimp
-
Cucumber, zucchini, or shelled peas
-
Snails (natural pest control!)
🧬 Yo Yo Loach Behavior
These fish are highly active, curious, and even playful. They often swim in spirals or chase each other around the tank. You may also hear clicking sounds—they use this to communicate!
They do best in groups and may become shy or aggressive if kept solo.
🤝 Best Tank Mates for Yo Yo Loaches
Yo Yo Loaches are generally peaceful but can nip fins when stressed or isolated. Keep them with:
Compatible Species:
-
Tetras
-
Corydoras
-
Rainbowfish
-
Gouramis
-
Rasboras
🚫 Avoid:
-
Long-finned fish (like bettas)
-
Aggressive cichlids
-
Very small shrimp
🛒 Where to Buy Yo Yo Loaches Online
At RobsAquatics.com, we provide:
-
Quarantined, healthy Yo Yo Loaches
-
Fast, safe shipping
-
Expert advice on care & setup
🔗 Related Blog Posts:
✅ Final Thoughts: Is the Yo Yo Loach Right for You?
If you want an active, intelligent, and helpful bottom dweller, the Yo Yo Loach is an excellent choice. They’re fun to watch, easy to care for, and work great in peaceful community aquariums. Just make sure to keep them in groups and provide hiding spaces.
🛒 Ready to add them to your tank?
👉 Buy Yo Yo Loaches from Rob's Aquatics