clown loaches?

[NCStateFisher]

So I know a lot of people on here really enjoy clown loaches, and I just wanted to ask a couple basic questions.

1) I know that clown loaches can reach a foot, but is this a realistic size or do most of them stop growing earlier than that?

2) I know they are incredibly social and should be kept in groups, but would a group of 3 be okay or do they really need 5+?

3) What makes these fish so desirable?

Honestly just curious about these things, i've always wondered why people like them so much and what their average adult size is.

 

[MHcblues119]

Yes a foot is a realistic size for them to reach...but it takes FOREVER! a few years.
And 3 would be fine...i have 3 4inchers in my 55 gallon and they are happy as clams...i plan on getting more eventually just not atm..

 

[NCStateFisher]

hmm so slow growers, what would you say sets them apart from other bottom fish? have you ever kept them with cichlids?

 

[MHcblues119]

I used to have them with my oscar...when he got bigger he ate one of my smaller ones..But that was my stupidity. In groups of 6+ they can beat out almost any other bottom dweller imo! they are always active...very colorful and with some patience can reach monster status

 

[Laticauda]

When I had clown loaches, it was because they ate snails. But I like yoyo loaches much better.

 

[USMCtanker]

i asked same things, why do people love them. then i got one an saw a large one, they will keep growing just real slow. once u get one u will see why people like them. they got great colors an patterns. an i swear there smart funny guys. they will hide behind a rock an peek there heads over to see where in room im at. lol id give them a go

 

[NCStateFisher]

hmm i'm definitely considering it haha, it's between these guys and a couple spotted pictus to finish off stocking my 75 if i end up adding anything else, thanks for the input guys

 

[USMCtanker]

hmm i'm definitely considering it haha, it's between these guys and a couple spotted pictus to finish off stocking my 75 if i end up adding anything else, thanks for the input guys

pictus are sweet to, i have one as well, def dont have the same character as the clowns. id get the clowns. they live long an as they slowly get cool there like little dogs. plus large clowns arent cheap. most times i see them at lfs there not for sale bc owner grew attached.

 

[MHcblues119]

a large clown is $100+ they are much nicer than pictus

 

[ronnie08]

clown loaches are a great fish to keep especially if kept in decent group..i have posted up a video in the video lounge..feel free to check it out and see what you think..