Clown Loach Medium

The Clown Loach is another favorite in the tropical fish world. This loach can live for a very long time, often 10 years or more if given good water conditions. They can be comical at times, like when they perform the strange behavior of laying on their side. Provide plenty of hiding spaces for them because they can also become quite shy at times.

This is one of those fish that are more susceptible to ich than others. In fact, they are usually the first fish to die when water quality declines. For that reason, they are not recommended for the freshwater fish beginner. If you are planning on keeping them in your tank it may be a good idea to set up a quarantine tank for any fish you plan on adding to your tank. A quarantine tank will help prevent the spread of ich to your clowns.

For fish food, they will go after vitamin enriched flakes and wafers but they seem to especially enjoy shrimp pellets.

Scientific Name : Chromobotia macracanthu, Bleeker 1852

Common Names : Clown Loach

Care Level : Medium, very prone to ich infestation and is not recommended for the freshwater aquarium fish beginner.

Size : 12 inches (30 cm)

pH : 6 - 7.5

Temperature : 75°F - 85°F (24°C - 29°C)

Water Hardness : 5° to 15° dH

Origin / Habitat : Borneo, Sumatra

Lifespan : 10 years and longer

Temperament / Behavior : They are generally peaceful and can usually be kept in a community aquarium.

Breeding : Breeding them can be difficult in the home aquarium. 

Aquarium Size : 75 gallon or larger.

Tank Mates : Many given their peaceful nature. They do best when kept in a small school of 4 or more.

Fish Disease : Freshwater Fish Disease - Diagnose, Symptoms and Treatment

Diet / Foods : Will accept many types including flakes, freeze dried and live foods. Known to feed on snails.