Compatibility Overview
Clown Loach and Green Terror Cichlid 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 | Green Terror Cichlid | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77–86°F | 72–82°F | ✅ 77–82°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 6.0–8.0 | ✅ 6.0–7.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | aggressive | ❌ Risk |
| Adult Size | 12 in | 3.9 in | ⚠️ 3.1× difference |
| 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.
Green Terror Cichlid — Aquarium species
The Green Terror Cichlid is a popular choice for experienced aquarists due to its striking appearance and vibrant colors. They are known for their aggression and should be kept in a species-specific tank. Their tall, laterally compressed bodies and vivid coloration make them visually appealing but require careful handling due to their potentially aggressive
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Clown Loach live with Green Terror Cichlid?
Generally not recommended. Clown Loach and Green Terror Cichlid 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 Green Terror Cichlid together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Clown Loach and Green Terror Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Clown Loach and Green Terror Cichlid?
77–82°F
Is a Clown Loach aggressive toward a Green Terror Cichlid?
Clown Loach is peaceful and Green Terror Cichlid is aggressive. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Compatibility score breakdown
The overall score is weighted across water chemistry, behavior, adult size, swimming zone, and social needs. A score is a planning aid—not a guarantee for individual fish.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 56/100 |
| Ph | 100/100 |
| Temperament | 30/100 |
| Adult Size | 38/100 |
| Swim Zone | 92/100 |
| Social Needs | 92/100 |
Tank size scenarios
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. |