Sinibotia superciliaris

Sinibotia superciliaris is a botia from China's Yangtze basin with a long, slender and flexible body. Its body carries dark vertical bands, its head yellowish lines and its dorsal fin a broad dark band. Adults reach 10–11 cm. Unlike the tropical botias it likes cool to temperate water and has a reserved nature.

• At least 150 liters and 120 cm of length for a group of 4–6.
• 20–25°C, pH 6.5–8; it can be kept without a heater or with one set low.
• Clean, well-oxygenated, mature water; a 30% water change every week and moderate flow.
• Piles of stones, caves and roots; a tight lid is essential.

It feeds on small invertebrates. It accepts frozen or live bloodworms, tubifex, brine shrimp, chopped mussel and sinking dry foods.

Peaceful and shy. When kept alone or in very small numbers it hides or may start harassing others; it is more at ease in a group.

Good companions: calm species that like cool water: White Cloud Mountain minnows, danios, small barbs, hillstream loaches.

Avoid: tropical species that need warm water, large aggressive botias, cichlids that claim the bottom.