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The Loach Forum Archives (2)
Re: Clown Loach
Posted By: Iris <Iris6@aol.com> In Response To: Re: Clown Loach (Anthony)
Date: Tuesday, 27 June 2000, at 10:12 p.m.
The algae nibbling is normal. It's not their main diet and they can't live exclusively on it, but they will nibble it. I have also seen clown loaches move the gravel around pebble by pebble - why, I am not sure. Could be looking for food, could be some other reason. Are there any snails in your tank? Perhaps he is eating those.
If the little guy is new, he will need to settle in a bit before he eats in front of you. He is also probably feeling very insecure because of a lack of buddies - a lack that you are apparently trying to fix. Does he have a place to hide?
As far as buddies are concerned, what other loaches are available at your lfs? Perhaps if everyone here could see a list, we could all help make suggestions.
Since you say you are new to these guys, I'll point out 3 things: 1) Keep the water quality exceptional. Warm temperature (80 degrees F is good), NO ammonia, NO nitrite, low nitrAte. Regular water changes. If the tank is recently set up, be especially watchful of the water conditions. Clown loaches really shouldn't go in recently set up tanks - I don't know how long yours has been established.
2) Keep good water motion at the surface, for increased oxygen exchange. Loaches need lots of oxygen.
3) If they lie on the bottom on their sides, THIS IS NORMAL, THEY ARE NOT DEAD! Just about everyone - even people who've heard about this - freak out the first time they see it. Of course, some people's loaches never do it. The little guys are individuals.
Iris
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