Zebra Loach: Tank Size, Tank Mates & How Many to Keep

What size tank do zebra loaches need?

At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a group of 5. The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Botia striata.

How many zebra loaches in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if zebra loaches are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Tank	How many zebra loaches
5 gallon	Too small
10 gallon	Too small
20 gallon long	Too small
29 gallon	up to 6
40 gallon breeder	up to 8
55 gallon	up to 11
75 gallon	up to 16
125 gallon	up to 26

Check zebra loaches against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

Keep at least 5. Alone or in twos and threes, zebra loaches hide, stop eating well, or pick on each other.

Tank mates for zebra loaches

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as zebra loach.
Molly: They need different water: Zebra loach likes a pH of 6–7.5, molly likes 7.5–8.5.

Questions and answers

What size tank do zebra loaches need?

At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a group of 5. The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many zebra loaches should be kept together?

At least 5. Zebra loaches are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.

Can zebra loaches live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Zebra loach needs at least 30 gallons (114 liters).

What temperature do zebra loaches need?

73–79 °F (23–26 °C), with a pH of 6–7.5. In most homes that means a heater.

Can zebra loaches live with a betta?

Usually, yes, in a tank of 30 gallons (114 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–79 °F (24–26 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.