Blackline Loach (Ambastaia nigrolineata)
Fish in the family Botiidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameAmbastaia nigrolineata
FamilyBotiidae
Also known asBlack-lined Loach, Botia nigrolineata, Yasuhikotakia nigrolineata
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietomnivore
Adult size3 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 5-12 dGH
Appearance
Slender body with a bold dark horizontal stripe running the length of the body and finer markings above it.
Difficulty and care for the Blackline Loach
Moderate
Origin and habitat
Mekong basin, Thailand and Laos
Keeper notes
Peaceful and very social, similar to its close relative the Dwarf Chain Loach; needs a group of 6+ and is active in open water. May eat tiny shrimp.
Log Blackline Loach in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Blackline Loach alongside everything else in your reef.