Schistura balteata

Schistura balteata is a loach of about 8 cm that lives in mountain streams in the border region of Myanmar and Thailand. It is considered less quarrelsome than many species of the genus Schistura, but it is still territorial: every individual sets aside a stone or a cave for itself. It is shy by nature; with enough shelters and its own kind it comes out more.

• At least 90 liters and 90 cm of length for a group of 4–6.
• 22–26°C, a stable temperature; pH 6.5–7.5.
• Fast flow and plenty of oxygen are essential; a strong filter, a circulation pump and an air stone.
• Large stones, rock piles and shaded shelters; anubias, java fern and bolbitis attached to stones. A 30–50% water change every week.

It feeds on small insects, worms, crustaceans and zooplankton. It accepts dry food, but frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp and bloodworms should be given regularly.

In a small or sparsely decorated aquarium it fights with its own kind. It calms down in a layout with plenty of stones and broken lines of sight.

Good companions: danios, devarios, current-loving rasboras and barbs.

Avoid: small and slow bottom dwellers, other small loaches, species that need warm, still water.