Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus)

Description:
The Clown Loach is a colorful and playful freshwater fish, recognized for its bright orange body with bold black bands and red-tinted fins. This bottom-dwelling species is highly active and social, often seen playing or exploring the aquarium together. Clown Loaches are a favorite for their vibrant colors and ability to help control pest snails in the aquarium.

Size:
Up to 12 inches (30 cm) in captivity, though commonly seen around 8 inches (20 cm).

Aquarium Size:
A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for a group of Clown Loaches due to their adult size and active nature.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C)

• pH: 6.0 to 7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderate

Temperament:
Clown Loaches are peaceful community fish but can become shy if not kept in proper group sizes. They are playful and social, often seen interacting with each other.

Group Size:
Best kept in groups of 5 or more. Being a shoaling species, they require a group to feel secure and exhibit their natural playful behavior.

Compatibility:
They can be kept with other peaceful species such as tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and corydoras catfish. Avoid aggressive species or small delicate fish that may become stressed by the loach’s activity.

Diet:
Omnivorous. Clown Loaches thrive on a varied diet of sinking pellets, frozen foods, live worms, and occasional vegetables like cucumber and zucchini. They are known to eat pest snails, making them a helpful addition to some aquariums.

Care Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. Their large adult size, group requirements, and long lifespan demand a spacious, well-maintained aquarium.

Planted Aquarium:
Clown Loaches can be kept in planted aquariums but may uproot delicate plants while foraging. Hardy plants like Anubias, Java Fern, and attached species work best.

Invertebrate Compatibility:
Not ideal for tanks with small invertebrates like shrimp, as they may prey on them. Larger snails may also be targeted for food.

Lid Recommendation:
A secure lid is recommended, as Clown Loaches are known to jump when startled.

Additional Notes:
Clown Loaches are sensitive to poor water quality, so regular maintenance and a strong filtration system are essential. They may also make clicking noises when excited, which is a natural behavior.

Disclaimer:
Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.