Clown Loach

Chromobotia macracanthus

Habitat & Distribution : endemic to the inland waters of Sumatra and Borneo, Indonesia

Diet: Crustaceans, worms, algae and insect larvae

Size: Up to 30,5 cm; 469 g

Lifespan: 10 - 20 years

Description

The clown loach is a freshwater fish characterized by its elongated, whitish orange to reddish orange body with three triangular black stripes. There is a known regional difference. Loaches from the waters of Borneo have reddish orange and black ventral fins, while the ones from Sumatra are fully reddish orange. Its head is relatively big. Its mouth point downwards and has thick, fleshy lips and four pairs of barbels that are slightly difficult to see.

Behavior

This fish is commonly found in the clear fresh waters of Sumatra and Borneo. Adults are found in the bottom of main river channels, often hiding under wood, rocks or in mud. Juveniles are often found in floodplains. It uses its barbels to find prey. Can be quite territorial.

Reproduction

Mature fish will migrate to spawn and breed in swift flowing rivers at the beginning of the rainy season. They are sexually dimorphic. Females are slightly plumper with a straight tipped tail, while males are less plump with a tail tip that curves slightly inwards.

Communication & Perception

Clown loaches use sounds to communicate. It can grind its pharyngeal teeth to create clicking sounds that can be used to express hapiness, warn fish intruding on its territory, and when mating.

Predator(s)

Larger predatory fish

Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List; 2020)