Clown Loaches

[Downrock]

Hi, I have 2 clown loaches in a 75 gallon and they seem to be a bit timid and I realize they enjoy being kept in groups. I was thinking of adding 2 more. Do you think it would be ok having a total of 4 in the tank or is it preferable to go with an odd number rather than even. Thanks.

[Strider]

I would get as many as your pocket book could afford. But in lieu of that 5 would be better.

[NJ Devils Fan]

Welcome to Aquaria Central Downrock! :)

5 or 6 would be fine, as you said, they like to be kept in groups.

[Sting]

But also remember it all depends on the size of your tank! ;) I've read Clown's aren't recommended for any tank smaller than 125 Gallons, but that's full size of course ;) Good Luck! Clown's are fun!!! Very comical and active, they just ahve to break out of their shy "shell" and before you know it, you'll be having a great time watching them!

[gcvt]

What other fish do you have in your 75?

[Downrock]

The 75 gallon currently houses a small 1" convict and a 2.5" jack dempsey along with the 2 clown loaches. I figured having 5 or 6 clown loaches in a 75 might be pushing the limits thats why i was wondering if 4 would be ok. Some people say that having an even number of clown loaches isnt a good idea though, any opinions on that? Would i be better off having 3 clown loaches than 4? I'd rather not go as high as 5 or 6 loaches because of space/cash requirements. thanks.

[superstein61]

Clowns grow slowly - I have had 3 in my 29 gallon for 2+ years with no problem (got them when they were pretty young). I will have 5 or 6 in my 72 gallon once it finishes cycling.

I would not be adverse to an even number (you are not really worried about mating issues with Clowns like some other fish). I say the more the better - so go with 4 if that is your upper limit

[Downrock]

Actually cashwise I'm not bad off really so I probably can go with more if my tank capacity can hold them and still provide an adequate living space for them. Sometimes im a bit cheap when it comes to spending but if its going to make them happier and there is enough space I'll get more. What would be the max for a 75 gallon tank?

[Serrateeth_2002]

Better get them used,i have a pair that haven't got used to the surroundings after 6 years,they do have the instinct to come out only at night.

[Sabrina]

i have 5 of them in a 150gallon tank. I have had them for 3 years they grew maybe a full inch to maybe an inch and a half in that time. the whole group hangs out together all day they even sleep together iswear, they actually lay on their sides for hours at a time untill one of my cichlids disrupts them. 3-5 is a good amount to have.

[Hootchieman]

I have two 5" clowns in my 72 gallon tank and they seem to be quite at home in the tank. I wish I could afford more but until I get my next tank I will stick with these two.