{"product_id":"clown-loach-chromobotia-macracanthus-xxl-size-14-15-cm-approx-5-5-6-inches","title":"Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) 3\"","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe clown loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) is a highly popular, colorful freshwater tropical fish native to the inland waters of Sumatra and Borneo in Indonesia. Known for their striking orange bodies, three bold black bands, and vibrant red fins, these fish are beloved for their playful, dog-like behavior and ability to naturally clear pest snails from aquariums. However, because they grow significantly larger and live much longer than most beginners realize, they require highly specific, long-term care conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCore Specifications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult Size: 12 to 13 inches (30 to 33 cm) long, with a very thick, heavy body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLifespan: 10 to 25+ years under proper care.Social Habits: Strictly schooling fish; they must be kept in groups of at least 5 to 6 individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTank Position: Bottom dwellers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnique Defense: They possess a sharp, subocular spine beneath each eye that can pop out when stressed. Never handle them barehanded or catch them in fine mesh nets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBehavior and \"Clownish\" Antics\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrue to their name, clown loaches exhibit several strange behaviors that frequently scare new fishkeepers:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlaying Dead: They frequently sleep flat on their sides or upside down on the substrate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClicking Noises: They produce distinct, audible clicking sounds when happy, excited, or feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiling Up: The entire school will pack tightly together inside a single cave, hollow log, or narrow crevice to rest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHabitat and Tank Requirements\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile juvenile clown loaches are often sold at a cute 1 to 2 inches, they grow steadily and need immense swimming space to prevent stunting and stress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMinimum Tank Size: Young juveniles can start in a 4-foot tank, but adults require a massive aquarium measuring at least 6 feet long (approximately 150 to 180 gallons \/ 560+ liters).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater Temperature: 74°F to 86°F (23°C to 30°C).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater Parameters: pH of 6.0 to 7.5; soft to medium water hardness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnvironment: High filtration and excellent water aeration are mandatory. Provide a soft sand substrate to protect their delicate sensory barbels, along with plenty of smooth rocks, driftwood, and secure caves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompatible Tank Mates\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause they are peaceful but highly active, they do well with robust, non-aggressive community fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMid-to-Top Water Fish: Tiger barbs, cherry barbs, neon tetras, and black widow tetras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther Bottom Dwellers: Kuhli loaches, bristlenose plecos, or Borneo sucking loaches.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Jasmin Aquatics Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53427955171625,"sku":null,"price":23.75,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0966\/4325\/2521\/files\/Micro-Pellets_20260814_192558_0000.png?v=1786721393","url":"https:\/\/jasminaquaticsstore.com\/products\/clown-loach-chromobotia-macracanthus-xxl-size-14-15-cm-approx-5-5-6-inches","provider":"Jasmin Aquatics Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}