![]() ![]() Tankmates could include other temperate botiids, some of the torpedo-shaped nemacheilid loaches, Crossocheilus spp., Garra spp., and some of the medium sized Devario or barb species. Dim lighting is preferable, and a well-covered tank is a must as these loaches are expert jumpers and can escape through the tiniest of openings. Ensure that the substrate has no sharp edges as these loaches will enjoy digging around the bottom of the tank in their search for titbits of food, and it is important that nothing damages their delicate sensory barbels. Create a multitude of hiding spots and 'visual barriers' with smooth rounded rocks, cobbles, and pebbles of varying sizes. As with all botiids, these loaches must only be added to aquariums that are biologically mature. ![]() Depending on your location, a means of chilling the water may be needed during the warmest parts of the year. The natural habitat should be emulated as closely as possible in the home aquarium by employing powerful filtration and using additional powerheads to create strong currents and to oxygenate the water efficiently. Here these elongate bottom-dwellers congregate in large shoals, feeding on benthic crustaceans and insects in and amongst the substrate. Take care when selecting the proper tank size, decorations, and tank mates to ensure a harmonious environment.CareThe Chinese Golden Zebra Loach is known from clear, cool streams and rivers, in moderately flowing waters with some aquatic plant life. Closing Thoughtsīottom-dwelling fish bring activity and beautiful color to the lower levels of your tank. Pair blue neon gobies with other small, peaceful species to create a pleasing display. These fish can live as a single specimen or as a group however, males may squabble for dominance. They will not snack on your aquarium plants. Their adult length between 1.2 and 1.4 inches (3 to 3.6 cm) means a manageable tank size.īlue neon gobies feed mostly on algae and biofilm, so make sure the tank is mature and cycled before you introduce them. These fish are native to fast-moving streams and need a decent water flow in a home aquarium. This smaller fish has a bright blue color that makes it the centerpiece of your tank. The following are some of our top choices for bottom-dwelling additions to your tank. Research online or contact local fish stores to determine whether the species you select needs more of its own kind to display active behaviors. Pair them with fish species having similar temperaments. For nocturnal species, feed them after the lights are out.įinally, algae eaters need a robust layer of mature algae, so add objects such as live plants and driftwood that can encourage algae growth. Likewise, spot feeding or clipping foods near the tank floor can help. Sinking pellets, wafers, or tablets are a good solution, just make sure they are appropriately sized. Greedy middle to top dwellers can quickly grab all the food as it floats down, leaving little for their bottom-dwelling friends. In a community tank, make sure that your bottom feeders are well fed. ![]() Some have sensory adaptations, such as whisker-like structures, to aid in their search.Īlthough they constantly scour the tank, each will need supplemented food to round out their diet. Feedingīottom-dwelling species like to sift through the substrate for uneaten food. Current, bubblers, under gravel filtration systems, or a canister filter can help keep the water from becoming depleted. Water ConditionsĮnsure that the bottom of the water column is well oxygenated. Color, grain size, and even the amount you lay down can vary depending on the species.īecause some species are shy and others are nocturnal, make sure there are plenty of hiding spaces and keep the lighting dim. Bottom feeders spend a good portion of their time, if not all of it, on the bottom of the tank.Īs such, consider the species’ habits when selecting a substrate. ![]()
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