Clown Loach - Chromobotia macracantha

Clown Loaches make a great addition to any adequately sized freshwater aquarium. They display a beautiful orange and black barred coloration, and are often active during the day, especially when kept in groups, though they require caves and hiding places to retreat to at times. As the name suggests, they can be very funny, and can often be found 'playing dead' laying on their sides at the bottom of the aquarium, only to jump up and swim away as if nothing happened.       

Care

Clown Loaches grow to an adult size of about a foot long, though they are a very long lived and slow growing species, so this size is rarely seen in captivity, more commonly growing to around 6". They are a very social species, and should be kept with a small group of other Clown Loaches to feel most comfortable. As with most loaches, they are known to consume snails and other small invertebrates commonly kept in home aquariums.     

Diet

Clown Loaches will accept prepared foods, but as they grow, they have been known to become more picky, with meaty frozen options being preferred.