Caresheets - Clown Loach () - Chromobotia macracanthus

Clown Loach
Alternative Name(s):
Scientific Name(s): Chromobotia macracanthus
Category: Tropical
Difficulty:
Maximum Size: 40cms
Minimum Tank Volume: 500 litres
Minimum Tank Size: 6ft x 2ft x 2ft
Water Temperature Range: 25-30°C
Water pH Range: 5.0-7.0
Water Hardness Range: 1-12 dGH

General Information:	Large, social, shoaling fish, oversold as suitable for small communities for this reason. They are generally more active at night, but often venture out during the day. They require excellent filtration and are better suited to a well established tank.
Tank Requirements:	See Minimum Tank Volume and Minimum Tank Size above
Diet Requirements:	Will readily accept most flake, frozen and live foods. Vegetables and fruits are also taken. Eats most invertebrates, loves wormy foods. They will nibble on softer leaved plants.
Compatibility:	Clown Loaches are occasionally territorial and may fin nip, but can usually be kept safely within a community tank of medium sized fish. Will take eggs and fry of other species. Competitive feeder.
Recommendations:	Keep in a well planted tank with subdued lighting and plenty of hiding places. Use a small rounded gravel or a sand substrate, avoid abrasive substrates. Keep in groups of at least 5.
Common Problems:	Acclimatisation stress, susceptible to ich and sensitive to organic dyes, copper and formalin. Half doses only. Wanes if denied a shoal. UV steriliser is recommended. Stressed by high pH.
Similar Species:	Many Botias look similar apart from colour, though are usually much smaller, often fin nippers. Clown loaches vary in hue and frequency of stripes according to regional populations.
Sexing:	The females are thought to be bulkier around the middle although there is no conclusive way of knowing.
Breeding:	Only one authenticated breeding has occurred in the UK. Chances of breeding without an outdoor tropical pond are remote.

Author(s): Fishlady | Photo: | Views: 50461

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