Description

Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Chromobotia macracanthus

• Family: Botiidae

• Origin: Indonesia (Sumatra & Borneo)

• Size: 12 – 16 inches (30 – 40 cm) in aquariums, bigger in the wild

• Lifespan: 15 – 20 years (long-living)

• Tank Zone: Bottom to mid-dwellers

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 150 – 300 ppm

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• Temperature: 25 – 30°C (77 – 86°F)

• Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Bright orange body with black stripes – very eye-catching.

• Social, playful, and intelligent; often swim in groups.

• Can make clicking sounds when excited or feeding.

• Grow quite large – need a big tank.

• Known to be snail hunters (good for snail control).

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous.

• Diet: Sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, snails, cucumber, zucchini, spinach.

• Feeding: 2–3 times daily in small portions.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 100 gallons (for a group).

• Filtration: Strong filter; clean, well-oxygenated water.

• Decor: Caves, driftwood, rocks, soft sand or fine gravel, plants.

• Water Change: 30–40% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: At least 5–6 (they are schooling fish).

• Tank Mates: Tetras, Gouramis, Barbs, Plecos, Rainbowfish, other peaceful large fish.

• Avoid: Aggressive fish and very small tank mates (can be eaten as adults grow).

✅ Do’s

• Keep in a group for natural behavior.

• Provide hiding spots – they love caves and tubes.

• Maintain warm, stable water with good oxygen.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep in small tanks (they grow large).

• Don’t keep alone – they get stressed.

• Don’t expose to poor water quality (they are sensitive).

⭐ Quick Tips

• One of the most popular loaches in the aquarium hobby.

• Active, social, and beautiful – but need a large tank.

• Great for snail control and very entertaining to watch.