Clown Loach

Clown Loach

Scientific Name: Chromobotia macracanthus

The Clown Loach is one of the most recognisable and entertaining freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. With their striking orange bodies, bold black bands, and playful personalities, they quickly become a favourite in the aquarium.

Clown Loaches are highly social fish and should be kept in groups, ideally 5 or more. They are active, intelligent, and often display quirky behaviours, including resting on their sides or piling together — behaviour that can sometimes alarm new owners but is completely normal for this species.

Care Requirements

• Adult Size: Up to 25–30+ cm

• Temperature: 25–30°C

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Temperament: Peaceful and social

• Diet: Omnivore

• Minimum Tank Size: 450L+ long-term

• Group Size: Ideally 5 or more

• Lifespan: 15–20+ years with proper care

Clown Loaches require a spacious, well-filtered aquarium with plenty of hiding places, including caves, driftwood, and smooth décor. Although they are commonly sold as small juveniles, they grow into very large fish and are a significant long-term commitment.

They enjoy a varied diet of quality sinking foods, frozen and live foods, and vegetable-based options. Clown Loaches are also well known for eating pest snails, although they should never be purchased solely as a solution to a snail problem.

Because Clown Loaches have very small scales, they can be particularly sensitive to poor water quality and some medications. Stable water conditions, good filtration, and regular aquarium maintenance are essential.

A beautiful, social, and incredibly entertaining species for aquarists who can provide the space and long-term care they require.