Compatibility Overview
Clown Loach and Nerite 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 | Nerite Snail | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77–86°F | 65–85°F | ✅ 77–85°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 6.5–8.5 | ✅ 6.5–7.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | ✅ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 12 in | 1 in | ❌ 12× 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.
Nerite Snail — Nerita spp.
Outstanding algae-eating snails that do not reproduce in freshwater. Extremely hardy and compatible with virtually all peaceful fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Clown Loach live with Nerite Snail?
Generally not recommended. Clown Loach and Nerite 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 Nerite Snail together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Clown Loach and Nerite Snail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Clown Loach and Nerite Snail?
77–85°F
Is a Clown Loach aggressive toward a Nerite Snail?
Clown Loach is peaceful and Nerite Snail is peaceful. Clown loaches eat snails.