A Clown Loach or Tiger Botia (Botia macracanthus) is a freshwater fish belonging to the loach family (Cobitidae). Originating in Indonesia on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo, it is commonly kept as a pet in tropical aquaria. They have an orange fins with 3 black bands on a yellowish body and some barbels about their mouth. They grow slowly to a maximum length of 11.8 in (30.0 cm). Except for a case in the UK, these fish have not been bred in captivity. This is partly due to the fact that they do not reach sexual maturity until after nine or ten years of age.
A harmless, very active, social fish, they are best kept in groups of 5 or more. These fish have defensive spines located under their eyes. In cases of extreme distress they can deploy their spines. If a loach deploys its spines while caught in a net, untangle it very carefully. Some owners have been stabbed while trying to catch or touch these fish. When kept in smaller groups, they may spend more time hiding under obstacles in the water. They are also found to make clicking noises when excited or eating. They natively live in a tropical climate and prefer water with a 5.0 - 8.0 pH, a water hardness of 5.0 - 12.0 dGH, and an ideal temperature range of 77 - 86 °F (25 - 30 °C). They eat small worms, crustaceans, and plant matter.
If you have noticed that your Clown Loaches do not come out of hiding, there are some easy things to adjust so that your Clown Loaches will be more comfortable. A good tank setup for a Clown Loach should include ample shade, plants (plastic or real), hiding places and other peaceful fishes. Make sure the environment is not too bright. Provide shade from tank lighting. If your tank is next to a window, you should move it.
Because Clown Loaches come from rivers and streams, they are accustomed to having other fishes and plants in their environment. Not having plants and/or other fishes can cause Clown Loaches to become stressed and to go into hiding. Be careful when adding fish into a tank with Clown Loaches. If you have just added an aggressive fish, and it is causing stress to your Clown Loaches, it should be removed. Before introducing Clown Loaches to your tank, make sure the fish you currently have are compatible.
You should also provide a variety of foods for your loaches. Bottom Feeder Pellets should be given daily. You should feed your Clown Loaches live foods as well.
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