Clown Loach and Guppy Compatibility Overview
Short answer: No. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Keep them in separate tanks, or pick one of the safer tank mates listed below.
Clown Loach and Guppy are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Clown Loach | Guppy | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77โ86ยฐF | 72โ82ยฐF | โ 77โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 6.0โ7.5 | 6.8โ8.5 | โ ๏ธ 6.8โ7.5 (narrow) |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | โ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 12 in | 2.5 in | โ 5ร difference |
| Min. Group | 5+ | 3+ | 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
Guppy โ Poecilia reticulata
Hardy and colourful livebearers. Males' long flowing tails make them targets for fin-nipping species. Very prolific breeders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Clown Loach live with Guppy?
Generally not recommended. Clown Loach and Guppy are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Clown Loach and Guppy together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Clown Loach and Guppy together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Clown Loach and Guppy?
77โ82ยฐF โ inside Clown Loach's 77โ86ยฐF and Guppy's 72โ82ยฐF.
Is a Clown Loach aggressive toward a Guppy?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Safer Tank Mates for Clown Loach and Guppy
The highest-scoring compatible partners for each species in our compatibility data.
For Clown Loach
- Moonlight Gourami โ 93/100
- African Butterfly Fish โ 87/100
- Three Spot Gourami โ 87/100
- Silver Dollar โ 86/100
- Bosemans Rainbowfish โ 84/100
For Guppy
- Molly โ 96/100
- Neon Rainbowfish โ 96/100
- Clown Pleco โ 95/100
- Pearl Danio โ 93/100
- Zebra Danio โ 93/100
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Clown Loach and Guppy
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. |