Can Swordtail Live With Clown Loach?
Swordtail and Clown Loach are compatible. Temperature overlap 77–82°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 75 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Swordtail | Clown Loach | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 77–86°F | 77–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.4 | 6–7.5 | 7–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 5.5" | 12" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 75 gal | 75 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Swordtail + Clown Loach
To keep Swordtail and Clown Loach together, you need at minimum a 75 gallon tank. Swordtail should be kept in a school of 3+. Clown Loach should be kept in a school of 5+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
Swordtails are hardy, colorful livebearers named for the distinctive elongated lower tail fin (the 'sword') found on males. They come in many color varieties including red, pineapple, marigold, and tuxedo. Larger than guppies but just as easy to care for, swordtails are excellent community fish that prefer hard, alkaline water.
Full care guide →Clown Loach
Chromobotia macracanthus
The Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish growing to 12 inches. Peaceful temperament, minimum 75 gallon tank.
Full care guide →