Clown Loach

The Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) is a striped, whiskered bottom-dweller with clownish antics and snail-hunting prowess. Social and playful, it schools in caves, entertaining with upside-down tumbles. Hardy but ich-prone, the Clown Loach fits large communities, delighting keepers with longevity and quirk.

Care Sheet – Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus)

Temperament

• Peaceful, social schooling fish
• Best kept in groups of 5 or more

Adult Size

• 8–12 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 55 gallons for school

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–86°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–12 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous
• Sinking pellets, frozen/live bloodworms, snails, veggies
• Feed small amounts 1–2× daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for large communities with loaches, plecos, larger tetras
• Avoid small fish; ich risk high

Aquarium Setup

• Sandy substrate, caves/driftwood, strong filtration, dim lighting

Care Level

• Moderate

Lifespan

• 10–20 years

Special Notes

• Snail exterminators
• Playful; upside-down behaviors common