Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Cichlid Compatibility Overview
Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Clown Loach wants 6.0โ7.5 and Electric Yellow Cichlid wants 7.7โ8.6. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Clown Loach | Electric Yellow Cichlid | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77โ86ยฐF | 75โ82ยฐF | โ 77โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ7.5 | 7.7โ8.6 | โ No overlap |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 12 in | 3.9 in | โ ๏ธ 3.1ร difference |
| Min. Group | 5+ | 4+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Clown Loach โ Chromobotia macracanthus
Striking striped loach that grows very large. Peaceful with fish but will eat shrimp, snails and tiny fish.
โ Full Clown Loach care guide
Electric Yellow Cichlid โ Labidochromis caeruleus
The Electric Yellow Cichlid is a popular freshwater species known for its striking yellow coloration and moderate aggression. It requires a spacious tank with hiding spots and is best kept with peaceful tankmates. This species is suitable for beginner aquarists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Clown Loach live with Electric Yellow Cichlid?
Generally not recommended. Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges do not meet: Clown Loach wants 6.0โ7.5 and Electric Yellow Cichlid wants 7.7โ8.6. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Cichlid together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Cichlid?
77โ82ยฐF โ inside Clown Loach's 77โ86ยฐF and Electric Yellow Cichlid's 75โ82ยฐF.
Is a Clown Loach aggressive toward a Electric Yellow Cichlid?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Cichlid
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 100 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 150 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 220 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |