Common Name: Clown Loach

Latin Name: Chromobotia macracanthus

Synonyms: Botia macracantha

Tank Bred: Yes, Clown Loaches are widely bred in captivity.

Distribution: Clown Loaches are native to Indonesia, specifically the islands of Sumatra and Borneo.

Max Size: In the wild, Clown Loaches can reach up to 16 inches (40 cm) in length, but in captivity they can but rarely grow to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm).

Lifespan: Clown Loaches can live up to 15-20 years with proper care.

Temperature Range: 75-86°F (24-30°C)

pH Range: 6.0-7.5

KH Range: 3-8

Care Level: Clown Loaches are a bit on the delicate side and require an experienced aquarist to properly care for them.

Lighting Preference: They do not have any specific lighting preferences, but they do need a regular day/night cycle.

Suitable for Planted Tanks: Yes, Clown Loaches can coexist with live plants, but they may uproot some plants in their search for food.

Preferred Food: Clown Loaches are omnivores and require a varied diet of both meaty and plant-based foods. They enjoy live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia, as well as sinking pellets and flakes.

Clown loaches are bottom dwelling scavengers that naturally feed on invertebrates, including worms, crustaceans, and snails, in the wild.  They have specialized mouths and retractable spines that allow them to pry snails from their shells and consume the soft body. In aquariums, they will readily eat small snails, such as juvenile mystery snails, and can even target larger snails if they work together or the snail’s shell is thin.

Behaviour: Clown Loaches are social fish and should be kept in groups of 5 or more. They are peaceful with other fish but may become territorial with each other if not provided with enough space. They are also known for their playful and curious behaviour.