Can Clown Loach live with Electric Yellow Lab?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Clown Loach and Electric Yellow Lab Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperament combination (peaceful+semi-aggressive) can work, but you will need to watch them at feeding time for the first week.
Clown Loach
Chromobotia macracanthus
| Adult Size: | 12.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 75 gal |
| Temperature: | 75-86°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
Electric Yellow Lab
Labidochromis caeruleus
| Adult Size: | 4.0" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Min Tank: | 30 gal |
| Temperature: | 75-82°F |
| pH Range: | 7.8-8.6 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Clown Loach | Electric Yellow Lab | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75-86°F | 75-82°F | 7°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 | 7.8-8.6 | No overlap ✗ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + semi-aggressive. Semi-aggressive → watch territory and feeding.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Clown Loach (12.0") vs Electric Yellow Lab (4.0"). A 8.0" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
Score: 60/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 75 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 75°F and 82°F.
- pH: no shared range. One species will be outside its tolerance regardless of what you set.
- Hiding spots: essential for Clown Loach — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 75+ gallons:
Sinking wafers ideal for loaches and bottom feeders
Explore Related Checks
See what else works with these fish:
⚠️ Common Reasons This Pairing Fails in Practice
- Size-based predation: The 8.0" size gap means the larger fish may eat the smaller one once it grows to full size. This is not fixable with more hiding spots.
- Overcrowding: Even compatible species fail in tanks that are too small. Double the species means double the bioload — 25% weekly water changes are the minimum.
- Inadequate acclimation: Adding both species on the same day without quarantine is a common mistake. Always drip-acclimate new arrivals and quarantine for 2–4 weeks.
Tools & Resources
Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Clown Loach may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.