Compatibility Overview
Clown Loach and Goldfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
| Factor | Clown Loach | Goldfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77–86°F | 50–74°F | ❌ No overlap |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 6.5–8.0 | ✅ 6.5–7.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | ✅ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 12 in | 12 in | ✅ Similar |
| Min. Group | 5+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
❌ Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Clown Loach — Chromobotia macracanthus
Striking striped loach that grows very large. Peaceful with fish but will eat shrimp, snails and tiny fish.
Goldfish — Carassius auratus
Classic pond and aquarium fish that prefer cool water. Heavy waste producers that require robust filtration. Will eat small fish and shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Clown Loach live with Goldfish?
Generally not recommended. Clown Loach and Goldfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
What tank size do I need for Clown Loach and Goldfish together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Clown Loach and Goldfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Clown Loach and Goldfish?
No overlap
Is a Clown Loach aggressive toward a Goldfish?
Clown Loach is peaceful and Goldfish is peaceful. Clown Loach requires tropical water; Goldfish requires cold water. These environments are incompatible.