Clown Loach

Clown Loach (Chromobotia Macracanthus)

The Clown Loach, also known as Tiger Loach, is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant coloration and playful behavior. This species boasts a striking pattern of bold black stripes against a bright orange body, reminiscent of a clown's costume, hence the name. They are quite large for aquarium fish, reaching up to 12 inches in adulthood.

Clown Loaches are social creatures with a lively personality. They are known for their playful antics and are best kept in a school of at least 5 to 6 individuals. They are generally peaceful and compatible with a variety of tank mates but can be semi-aggressive when defending their territory.

Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of a mix of plant-based foods and meaty foods. They enjoy a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, vegetables, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.

In terms of habitat, Clown Loaches prefer a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots. They enjoy burrowing, so a soft substrate is ideal. The tank should also include plenty of plants and smooth rocks for them to explore. The Clown Loach appreciates a tank with subdued lighting and the addition of plants that can thrive in such conditions. Suitable plant species include Java fern (Microsorum pteropus), 'Java' moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri), and Anubias spp. These plants can be strategically attached to decor to provide beneficial shade.

Clown Loaches are curious creatures that enjoy exploring their environment. Include a mix of rocks, wood, flowerpots, and aquarium ornaments to create an engaging and safe environment. However, avoid decor with sharp edges or small gaps that could trap the fish. If necessary, use aquarium-grade silicone sealant to fill in any potentially dangerous holes. Also, ensure the tank is securely covered, as Clown Loaches are known to jump occasionally.

While Clown Loaches don't need turbulent water, they do thrive in well-oxygenated conditions with some water flow. They are sensitive to organic waste accumulation and require pristine water to stay healthy. Therefore, they should only be added to mature, stable aquariums, not in a newly set-up tank.

Clown Loaches require a spacious aquarium of at least 75 gallons, with the ideal community aquarium size being 100 gallons or more. The ideal water parameters for Banded Leporinus are a pH of 6.0-7.5, hardness of 5-12 dGH, and a temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C).