Clown Loach – Chromobotia macracantha

The Clown Loach is a vibrant and entertaining freshwater fish known for its striking orange and black stripes. This species is popular among aquarists for its playful behavior and unique appearance, making it a captivating addition to community tanks.

Description:

Common Name: Clown Loach

Scientific Name: Chromobotia macracantha

Family: Cobitidae

Size: 6-12 inches (15-30 cm)

Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial with its own kind.

Difficulty: Moderate

Native Region:

The Clown Loach is native to the rivers and streams of Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, where it inhabits densely vegetated areas.

Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: Minimum of 75 gallons

Temperature: 75-86F (24-30C)

pH: 6.0-7.5

Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

Substrate: A soft substrate like sand or fine gravel with plenty of hiding spots provided by rocks, driftwood, and plants is ideal for this species.

Additional Tips:

Social Behavior: Clown Loaches are social fish that thrive in groups of at least 3-5, which helps reduce stress and encourages natural behavior.

Compatibility: They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of community fish, but avoid aggressive species that may intimidate them.

Diet: Provide a varied diet of high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp for optimal health.