Clown loach 5cm- 10cm

The Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) is one of the most beloved and recognizable freshwater aquarium fish. Famous for its bold orange body, black vertical stripes, and highly social behavior, this species brings both color and personality to large community aquariums. At 5–10cm, these young loaches are still growing and can eventually reach up to 30cm in length under the right conditions, making them a long-term commitment for hobbyists.

Native to the rivers and floodplains of Indonesia, Clown Loaches thrive in large, well-decorated tanks with plenty of hiding places, dim lighting, and soft, slightly acidic water. They are extremely social and do best in groups of 5 or more, where they engage in playful swimming, "clicking" sounds, and even upside-down resting behavior.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Chromobotia macracanthus

• Common Name: Clown Loach

• Size: 5–10cm (juvenile); up to 30cm as adults

• Temperament: Peaceful, playful, social

• Tank Zone: Bottom and mid-level

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate

• Best kept in groups of 5+ in a spacious tank

🌊 Water Conditions

Clown Loaches thrive in clean, soft water with gentle flow and stable parameters.

• Temperature: 25–30°C (77–86°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: 3–10 dGH

• Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum (larger for adults)

• Substrate: Smooth sand or fine gravel

• Filtration: Moderate to strong (well-oxygenated water)

• Lighting: Low to moderate (prefer shaded areas)

• Decor: Caves, driftwood, rock structures, and dense planting

They love to hide and feel secure in crevices—ensure plenty of tight, dark hiding spots.

🐟 Tank Mates

Clown Loaches are peaceful community fish and get along well with similarly non-aggressive species.

Good tank mates include:

• Tetras (larger types like Congo or Bleeding Heart)

• Gouramis

• Rainbowfish

• Angelfish

• Other loaches or peaceful catfish (e.g., Corydoras, Plecos)

Avoid:

• Aggressive cichlids

• Territorial bottom dwellers

• Very small fish or inverts, as loaches may nip or investigate them

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Clown Loaches are omnivores with a strong appetite and love to forage along the bottom.

Ideal foods include:

• Sinking pellets and wafers

• Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)

• Live worms or small snails

• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)

Feed once or twice daily, ensuring food reaches the bottom for them to scavenge naturally.

🧼 Care Tips:

• Maintain high water quality with weekly water changes (30–40%)

• Keep a tight lid—Clown Loaches may jump

• Quarantine new fish or decor to avoid introducing Ich (they’re prone to it)

• Provide low lighting or floating plants to reduce stress

• Keep them in groups to reduce aggression and increase activity

They are long-lived (up to 15–20 years) with proper care—prepare for a lasting companion.

🌿 Why Choose Clown Loaches?

With their stunning coloration, endearing group behavior, and bottom-cleaning habits, Clown Loaches are an exciting and interactive addition to any large, peaceful community tank. Their active nature and clown-like antics make them one of the most entertaining fish to keep.

Add fun, beauty, and life to your aquarium—bring home Clown Loaches today!