Clown Loach
Chromobotia macracanthus
One of the most charismatic fish in the hobby. Bright orange with bold black bands. They 'play dead' by lying on their sides, click when happy, and form incredibly tight social bonds. They also grow very large — often a surprise for beginners.
Buy Clown Loach →Quick Facts
Water Parameters
Natural Habitat
Rivers and flooded forests in Borneo and Sumatra. Migrate long distances to spawn.
Indonesia
Indonesia
Feeding
Omnivorous — sinking pellets, frozen foods, snails (excellent snail control). Love blanched vegetables.
Compatible Tank Mates
Good Matches
Avoid
Breeding
Has never been reliably bred in home aquaria. Commercial breeding uses hormones.
Care Tips
They grow to 12 inches — need 125+ gallons eventually
Keep in groups of 5+ — lonely Clowns become stressed
Lie on their sides to sleep — this is normal, not illness
Extremely susceptible to Ich — treat immediately
Can live 20+ years — a serious long-term commitment
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