The Loach Forum Archives (2)

Strange Behavior

Posted By: Uve
Date: Wednesday, 28 June 2000, at 1:55 a.m.

I posted this question some time ago, unfortunately no one answered. So I guess I'll try one more time. My clown loaches are tearing holes in my thick broad-leaved plants (mostly swords). Is this common behavior for clowns? They approach the leaf and begin nibbling, sometimes making a clicking noise. Next thing you know, holes all over my beautiful leaves. I bought some spirulina tablets and feed the clowns these quite often (they go nuts over them). I also feed them bloodworms twice a week and regular flake food. The spirulina tablets have cut down the problem somewhat, but the clowns still tear up the leaves now and then. Is there any way I can stop this strange behavior? Why are they doing this? A friend suggested dropping in some fresh green vegetables like peas, but won't this rot in the tank? Tank conditions: pH 7.0, GH 10, KH 8. Ammonia and nitrites 0, nitrates 8 ppm, temp. 78 degrees.
&nbs