Just Got Some New Fish: Zebra Loach?

M

Mike ➎™

New member
Yesterday I got 2 clown loaches, 1 zebra loach, 3 cardinal tetras, and 1 other fish but I forget the name. I know zebra loaches like places to hide like in little caves where it's darker. I don't really have anything like that in my tank. I do have a rock that fish can go through and under but it doesn't go under there but I think it's because it will be a pretty tight fit. The zebra loach is very active and you would think that's a good thing but I'm not sure if it is or not because I know they like to hide. And I can see it trying to rest on certain things in the tank but it looks like it's trying to get comfortable somewhere but it can't. So I'm wondering if I should get some type of cave where it can hide in. Would that be healthier for him and make him happier?
And is a single zebra loach in a tank with 2 other clown loaches OK? I've heard they should be in groups, when they say groups do they mean in groups of any fish or groups of zebra loaches?
 
Your tank is pretty peaceful so a cave isn't really that necessary. He won't be stressed(unless your tank is extremely crowded). A cave is preferred, but your loach will be completely fine without one.

Good luck :D
 
I'm gonna tackle this whole thing out of order, if you don't mind. First, you should really have a good shoal (3+ each) of both the Clowns and the Zebras, and you should have a full school of Cardinal Tetras (6+). This creates a problem: space. Clown Loaches will get over a foot each, though this takes time. For juveniles, I'd recommend a tank that is at least 2 feet long. This will also accommodate the other fish you've got in the numbers they need.

Zebra Loaches are pretty active fish, actually. It's not at all unusual for them to be quite brave in exploring the tank during the day, but they will want a place to run to if startled. That it won't settle anywhere is a sign of stress-- without a shoal of its own, it gets shifty, not feeling entirely comfortable. By adding two or three more Zebra Loaches, you can solve the problem and enjoy the fish in their true glory (they are truly glorious). You'll also want to increase the amount of decor, if the tank is as barren as you described. You don't necessarily need caves, but nooks and crannies are important. Pieces of rock, wood, and other decorations provide hiding places, which allow the fish to feel secure, and actually emboldens them so they use the hiding spots less.
 
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