Fin's Fish Guide
The Clown loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Botiidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The clown loach is a loach (Botiidae) from Southeast Asia, particularly Borneo and Sumatra. The species has a bright orange body with three broad black crossbars, to which the name refers, and red fins; behind the eye it bears a sharp, erectile suborbital spine. Adults live mostly on the bottom of the main river channels, where they hide under rocks, wood or in mud cavities. As an omnivore it searches the bottom for snails, worms, insect larvae and plant matter. It is a very popular aquarium fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Clown loach?
The Clown loach has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bright orange with three black vertical bars; an erectable suborbital spine behind the eye; popular aquarium fish.
Where does the Clown loach live?
The Clown loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia (Borneo and Sumatra); bottom of main river beds.
How big does the Clown loach get?
The Clown loach grows to a maximum of about 31 cm.
Is the Clown loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Clown loach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Clown loach edible?
The Clown loach is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Botiidae
Want the complete picture on the Clown loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Clown loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.