Species profile
Clown Loach
Chromobotia macracanthus
Semi aggressive
Hard care
650 L minimum aquarium
20–30.5 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Very large, long-lived social loach. Juveniles are routinely sold far below adult size, but a permanent group needs a six-foot by two-foot class aquarium and strong filtration.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
25–30 °C
pH
5–8
GH
5–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Snails
Bioload factor
3.5
Highly social and should not be kept singly. Maintain at least five, provide multiple large shelters and expect noisy clicking, hierarchy and vigorous feeding behaviour.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
650 L
Minimum footprint
180 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Chromobotia macracanthus
Alternative names
Clown Botia
Native range
Sumatra and Borneo, Indonesia.
Natural habitat
Adults use main river channels and hide under rocks, wood and in mud cavities; juveniles use floodplains. Provide sand, large smooth shelters, good flow and oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Natural foods include worms, crustaceans and plant matter. Feed sinking omnivore foods, frozen invertebrates and vegetables; snails may be consumed.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females are generally fuller-bodied; reliable external sexing is difficult outside mature groups.
Breeding
Home breeding is uncommon; commercial breeding has been achieved using controlled/hormonal techniques.