BEST possible companion for Botia modesta.

[2rivers]

Lupin says Skunks, is there a less aggressive option or maybe a non-loach cat that would fit well. What do you pros keep modesta with? (40 gal. breeder)

[2rivers]

the previous owner thought he had a Red-tailed shark,but Ive kept them before. This is my first Loach and Im hooked. I feel bad that modesta has been deprived of a school of his own kind. Its about 6" and very territorial of his stump. I need a better external filter and more wood retreats, then maybe I can save up for as many modesta as I can afford or maybe some Skunks. Im new to computers. I live in NH.

[andyroo]

in 40 gallons you're space is already pretty small for modesta.
Otherwise, I'd suggest good old fashioned clown loaches. They can hold their own and/or are indifferent to the Mod-squad's lunacy, and are big and school-y.
First things first, get three more of the smallest mods you can find then start saving for 80-100gallon system and a heap of plants. Check the want-ads for a second-hander if cost is an issue.

Even large, heavy-duty catfish (Synodontis) can get traumatized as they are grouchy and territorial, but aren't as maneuverable as a loach. Go for things that are entirely non-confrontational.
A

[2rivers]

I can handle a few more mods, but I rent & the landlord pays the water bill. Hes already suspisious and I have a few hidden 10 gals. If I only had a basement, people are always getting rid of large tanks cheap cuz of the space issue. I have coarser gravel than I should and the water current should be swifter. Im workin on it. I have all the classic low-light plants,but need more driftwood. Thanks for the advice it helps me decide what step is next.

50 eggs! That-a-boy Luke. GO!

[Marcos Mataratzis]

Best companions for a Grrr loach is another one. I do have a big modesta among 30 Clown loaches and other fishes. Fortunatelly, mine is calmer than most.
I would advise you to keep it with other modesta, skunk or tiger loaches (helodes, himenophysa, etc).

[piggy4]

I think the idea that Modesta's are aggressive is a misconception , if left alone they aren't bad , the problem is that if they are harassed they will defend themselves , the fact that they are powerful possibly makes them a bit unsuited to tanks were they might be tormented

[Gary Mck]

Unless you live in a place with extremely high water rates I can't see how having a 100g tank would make any difference to water usuage. Even if you were to do 2 x 20% weekly water changes that is only 40g of water.

The average american uses on average 100g per day, hence it really is neglible.

Space of course is an issue.

[starsplitter7]

I am skunks and tigers and both have not lived up to their repuations. I have them both in mixed communities with no problesm. But I know these guys can be really aggressive.