Clown Loach – Chromobotia macracanthus | Popular Wild-Caught Fish with Vibrant Colours & Social Behaviour

The Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) is one of the most well-known and colorful freshwater loaches available. This wild-caught species from Indonesia impresses with its intense orange-yellow base color with contrasting black transverse bands. Its lively and social behavior makes it a highlight in large aquariums.

Clown Loaches are peaceful, active, and social, preferring to be kept in groups and loving hiding places made of roots, stones, and tubes. Their interesting social behavior and striking posture when resting provide constant entertainment for aquarists.

🌿 Characteristics & Care:
🐠 Fish size: M (4–5 cm)
🌎 Origin: Indonesia (Borneo, Sumatra) – wild-caught
🌡️ Temperature: 25–30 °C
💧 pH value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐟 Social behavior: Peaceful, group fish (from 5 animals)
🌾 Aquarium: From 400 l, with sand substrate, caves & gentle current

🍽️ Feeding:
Eats live, frozen, and dry food. Mosquito larvae, mussel meat, and food tablets are particularly popular.

💡 Tip:
A soft substrate protects their sensitive barbels. Dimmed light and many hiding places promote natural behavior and well-being.

👉 Conclusion:
The Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus, wild-caught) is a colorful, peaceful, and social bottom-dwelling fish – ideal for large, structured aquariums.