Can Threadfin Butterflyfish live with YoYo Loach?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Threadfin Butterflyfish and YoYo Loach Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperament combination (peaceful+peaceful) can work, but you will need to watch them at feeding time for the first week.
Threadfin Butterflyfish
Chaetodon auriga
| Adult Size: | 8.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 75 gal |
| Temperature: | 74-82°F |
| pH Range: | 8.1-8.4 |
YoYo Loach
Botia almorhae
| Adult Size: | 5.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 30 gal |
| Temperature: | 75-86°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Threadfin Butterflyfish | YoYo Loach | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74-82°F | 75-86°F | 7°F ✓ |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 | 6.0-7.5 | No overlap ✗ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + peaceful. Both peaceful → minimal conflict.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Threadfin Butterflyfish (8.0") vs YoYo Loach (5.0"). A 3.0" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
⚠️ Diet Conflict: A carnivore sharing water with a fish small enough to fit in its mouth is a waiting game. Feed generously, but the risk is structural — not something you can manage meal by meal.
Score: 70/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 75 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 75°F and 82°F.
- pH: no shared range. One species will be outside its tolerance regardless of what you set.
- Hiding spots: essential for Threadfin Butterflyfish — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 75+ gallons:
Frozen mysis shrimp for marine butterflyfish
Explore Related Checks
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Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Threadfin Butterflyfish may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.