Blue Botia, Orange-Finned L (Yasuhikotakia modesta) — 4,5-6cm

Overview

The Blue Botia (Yasuhikotakia modesta), also known as the Orange-Finned Loach or Burmese Loach, is a striking Southeast Asian loach celebrated for its vivid blue-grey body and bold orange-red fins. Native to large rivers in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, this active, semi-aggressive species thrives in spacious, well-structured aquariums with strong filtration. Available for sale UK-wide, the Blue Botia is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a charismatic, bottom-dwelling centerpiece fish with moderate care requirements.

Appearance and Coloration

Yasuhikotakia modesta displays a sleek, blue-grey to slate-blue body with striking orange-red to flame-colored fins. Juveniles may show faint vertical barring, which fades with age. This species has a streamlined, elongated body with multiple pairs of barbels around the mouth, adapted for foraging on the substrate. The large, expressive eyes and vibrant fin color create a visually stunning contrast against the cool blue body.

Natural Habitat

The Blue Botia inhabits large, fast-flowing rivers across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. These environments feature rocky or sandy substrates, strong current, abundant submerged wood, and high oxygen levels. The fish forage for invertebrates, insect larvae, and organic matter among rocks and debris, often in small groups.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum 300-litre aquarium is essential for the Blue Botia, with larger tanks preferred for groups or community setups. Provide plenty of hiding places using driftwood, caves, smooth rocks, and PVC pipes. A soft substrate such as sand or fine gravel protects the barbels. Hardy plants like Anubias or Java Fern can be anchored among rocks. Strong filtration and excellent oxygenation are critical, as this species is active and produces substantial waste.

Water Parameters

Maintain soft to moderately hard water with pH 6.0-7.5 and temperatures between 24-30°C. General hardness (GH) of 5-12 dGH is ideal. The Blue Botia is adaptable but performs best in well-oxygenated water with strong circulation. Perform weekly water changes of 25-30% to control nitrate and maintain stable parameters. Avoid stagnant water or poor filtration, which stress this active species.

Feeding and Diet

Yasuhikotakia modesta is an omnivore with a preference for meaty foods. Offer sinking carnivore or omnivore pellets as a staple, supplemented with frozen and live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and chopped earthworms. Some vegetable matter or algae-based foods provide balanced nutrition. Feed once or twice daily in portions that are consumed within a few minutes.

Behaviour and Personality

The Blue Botia is an active, semi-aggressive loach that can be territorial, particularly toward conspecifics or other bottom dwellers. This species is constantly on the move, foraging on the substrate and exploring hiding places. While boisterous, it is generally peaceful toward mid-water or surface fish. Keeping in a group of 3-5 or more reduces aggression by establishing a social hierarchy.

Tank Mates

Ideal tank mates include robust medium to large peaceful fish such as fast-moving barbs, large rasboras, rainbowfish, and other sturdy loaches. Avoid small fish that may be bullied or eaten, slow or long-finned fish, shrimp and small invertebrates, highly territorial bottom dwellers, and very timid species. The Blue Botia coexists well with similarly sized, active fish in spacious, well-filtered aquariums.

Breeding

Captive breeding is uncommon and usually requires very large, well-conditioned fish and specialized hormone-assisted methods. Spawning in home aquaria is extremely rare. If breeding is attempted, provide a large, well-filtered tank with excellent water quality, strong water movement, and spawning media such as smooth rocks or caves.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is your trusted source for healthy, vibrant loaches sourced from reputable suppliers and quarantined for your peace of mind. We provide expert guidance on tank setup, water chemistry, and compatible stocking to help you create a thriving community aquarium. With fast, reliable delivery across the UK and a commitment to quality fishkeeping, Tropical Fish Co is your premier destination for striking and engaging freshwater fish.