Hiding clown loach

[fishfanatic]

Hi there, I have 33 gallon tank....yes I know, too small for clown loaches, but in my ignorance at the time I bought 2 clown loaches. I had the both of them for a good 3 or 4 months then 1 of them died.
For the first month the remaining clown loach was fine, he and the red tailed shark would swim around together, but now he is constantly hiding in the bog wood and doesnt come out to eat or anything. He is literly in there for days at a time. eventually I go in there and shake him out of the wood to check on him, but he goes right back in....He looks healthy and not losing weight, but I dont know what to do.

I dont think I should get another one and I dont know anybody with a large enough tank. Could someone give some suggestions on how to make him feel better? any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Crispy]

They don't do well when they are alone. They're schooling fish and for them to be comfortable need minimum 4 loaches.

[Sharon]

I actually have one in my 55gal...the lone survivor of three. I'm not recommending that one should keep a Clown Loach alone, but I have to say, my little guy is quite active in feeding, and playing.:ssmile:

[mac]

Well if you could maybe up grade your tank? Then you can get more.

mac

[Wetpets]

Do you know the term 'Dither fish'? It refers to vivacious species, like barbs, danios who are literally unafraid of humans. Dither fish, by thier activity, help 'bring out' shy species like loaches, syndontis, etc. Good dither fish are zebra or leopard danio, rummynose tetra, checkered barbs and even guppys.

Look up to see what's compatible with your tank. That may help.

Agree with posts about 4 or more. I have 5, and they are active.