Clown Loach

Care requirements

Care level: Advanced.

Because it uses the bottom area, leave enough open substrate area instead of crowding that part of the aquarium.

The listed lifespan is 15–25 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

An aquarium of 600 L or larger / ≥ 180 cm (≥ 70.9 in) minimum length can be a reasonable starting point, but it should not be read as permission to overstock.

Water parameters

The temperature range for this fish is 25–30 °C, which fits many tropical freshwater aquariums. Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs.

The pH range for this fish is 6–7.5. That points to slightly acidic to neutral water, but stability is more important than sudden corrections.

The GH range for this fish is 2–12 dGH. That gives some flexibility, but sudden changes are usually more stressful than a stable value that is slightly imperfect.

The KH range is 1–8 dKH. Use it as a general stability reference rather than a reason for aggressive adjustments.

Temperament and compatibility

As a peaceful bottom-dwelling fish, Clown Loach is best kept with calm species that will not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

Because this fish uses the bottom area, compatibility is easier when other fish are not all competing for the same swimming space.

Plant safe

Yes

Community safe

Yes

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the bottom area, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Clown Loach should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Because it feeds near the bottom, make sure food reaches the substrate and is not completely taken by faster fish in the open water.

Offer sinking pellets, worms, insect larvae, crustaceans, snails and vegetable matter. Distribute food across several locations.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Sumatra and Borneo.

Natural habitat: Main river channels, seasonal floodplains and submerged shelters among wood, rock, mud cavities and areas of current.

Breeding notes

Breeding difficulty is currently recorded as Advanced, so breeding plans should be researched beyond the basic care profile.

Adults can exceed 30 cm. Aquarium planning must be based on mature size rather than the much smaller juveniles commonly offered for sale.

Before adding this fish

• Plan for an aquarium of 600 L or larger / ≥ 180 cm (≥ 70.9 in) minimum length.
• Make sure the bottom area has enough open substrate for a group.
• Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs.
• Keep pH stable within the listed range instead of making sudden corrections.
• Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
• Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.