Compatibility Overview
Clown Loach and Sparkling Gourami 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 | Sparkling Gourami | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 77–86°F | 73–82°F | ✅ 77–82°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | ✅ 6.5–7.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | ⚠️ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 12 in | 2.0 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.
Sparkling Gourami — Aquarium species
The Sparkling Gourami is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant colors and peaceful nature. It is well-suited for beginners due to its easy care requirements and compatibility with a variety of tank mates. These gouramis thrive in a well-maintained tank with plenty of swimming space and gentle water flow. Providing a planted tank can enhance their n
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Clown Loach live with Sparkling Gourami?
Generally not recommended. Clown Loach and Sparkling Gourami 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 Sparkling Gourami together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Clown Loach and Sparkling Gourami together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Clown Loach and Sparkling Gourami?
77–82°F
Is a Clown Loach aggressive toward a Sparkling Gourami?
Clown Loach is peaceful and Sparkling Gourami is semi. 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 | 75/100 |
| Adult Size | 8/100 |
| 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. |