Clown Loach

This bottom dweller is a staple in the community tank. This slender fish with an orange body with black stripes grows up to an astonishing 12 inches. Males are identified by its tail, which is larger and hooks inward. Females are generally smaller and have a tail which points straight out from its body. Unlike most loaches, the Clown Loach is quite active during the daytime. However, a moon light is recommended to allow the owner to see the fish at its most active times at dawn and dusk. The gradual change in lighting will also prevent the fish from being spooked by bright light or immediate darkness.

This peaceful species prefers schooling with three or more other Clown Loaches, and may even school with similar patterned fish, like Tiger Barbs. Provide many hiding places as well as ample amounts of vegetation or live plants. Although this is a community fish, Clown Loaches will eat any snail in the fish tank. Like other loaches, the Clown Loach is extremely sensitive to some medications, especially those with Malachite Green or Copper Sulfate.

An odd behavior for this fish is that the Clown Loach may be found laying on its side, or upside down even under a cave or décor. This is actually a common behavior for this species and is nothing to be alarmed by.