Fin's Fish Guide
The Bengal loach (Botia dario) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Bengal loach is a loach (Botiidae) from fresh water of the Ganges and Brahmaputra basins in South Asia. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown body with a few broad, dark crossbars, barbels and an erectile spine below the eye. As a nocturnal, gregarious bottom-dweller it roots in groups through sand and leaf litter in search of snails, worms and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans and is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bengal loach?
The Bengal loach has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Bengal loach live?
The Bengal loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India
How big does the Bengal loach get?
The Bengal loach grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Bengal loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Bengal loach is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Botia
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Bengal loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bengal loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.