Clown Loach

Botia Macracantha Description

The clown loach is an aquarium favourite because of it's bold stripes and peaceful nature. When kept in a group the clown loaches always look spectacular swimming in a school around the aquarium floor.

The body is a strong orange which is broken up by three black bands. The front band extends across the eye while the last band continues up into the dorsal fin. The other fins and mouth barbells also show orange colouring.

The clown loach body shape is ideal for it's preferred natural habitat. The fish's bottom surface is flat allowing it to hug the aquarium substrate while water flows over the streamlined upper body. Occasionally they may also venture into mid-water, especially when swimming as a school.

Feeding

Clown loaches are shy fish preferring dense plant cover to open water. These loaches are most active during the evening and twilight hours. During this time they will emerge and forage on the aquarium substrate. Offering tasty foods such as bloodworms can coax them into view during daylight hours. Alternately aquarium lighting can be manipulated to mimic twilight conditions.

Clown Loach Profile

Family - Cobitatae

Size - 10-12 cm

Fish Origin - South East Asia and extreme Northern Africa

Water - Adapts to wide range of water conditions

Temperature - Acclimatises to temperatures from 24°C to 30°C

Feeding - Undemanding, feed a general tropical food and bloodworms

Sexing - No distinguishing features

Breeding - Rare in captivity

Aquarium - Best kept in a  school of it's own kind with other community fish

Clown Loach Behavoiur

Although often larger than it's tank mates, clown loaches usually show no
aggression toward the other aquarium fish. Most community aquariums
will be a good home for the clown loach.

Clown Loach | Khuli Loach | Aquarium Fish