Compatibility Overview
Clown Loach and Mystery Snail 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 | Mystery Snail | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77–86°F | 68–80°F | ⚠️ 77–80°F (narrow) |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 7.0–8.0 | ⚠️ 7.0–7.5 (narrow) |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | ✅ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 12 in | 2 in | ❌ 6× 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.
Mystery Snail — Pomacea bridgesii
Large, peaceful aquarium snails that graze on algae and detritus. Shell provides some protection but can be harassed by certain fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Clown Loach live with Mystery Snail?
Generally not recommended. Clown Loach and Mystery Snail 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 Mystery Snail together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Clown Loach and Mystery Snail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Clown Loach and Mystery Snail?
77–80°F (narrow)
Is a Clown Loach aggressive toward a Mystery Snail?
Clown Loach is peaceful and Mystery Snail is peaceful. Clown loaches relentlessly hunt snails.