Leptobotia pellegrini – Royal Clown Loach (5 cm)

📦 Description

The Royal Clown Loach (Leptobotia pellegrini) is a majestic river loach native to China's upper Yangtze and Pearl River basins. It grows to approximately 20–25 cm (8–10″), sporting striking banding—dark patches over lighter base skin—and a robust, elongated body. This carnivorous loach is celebrated for its rarity, elegance, and active behavior. As adults, they become less patterned and more marbled. Ideal for large, mature tanks, these loaches thrive when kept in small groups and are often considered among the most prestigious freshwater loaches available.

🧰 Care Instructions

• Tank Size: Large setup—minimum 150+ gallons (~570 L); base footprint roughly 120 × 45 cm or more.

• Flow & Oxygen: Prefers strong unidirectional flow (several× turnover per hour) and high dissolved oxygen.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 60–76 °F (15–24 °C)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Hardness: Moderate (~6–18 °dGH)

• Substrate & Decor: Use smooth gravel, rocks, driftwood, and caves. Provide shaded areas and ample bottom shelter.

• Diet: Carnivorous top-tier feeders—offer high-grade sinking pellets, bloodworms, tubifex, chopped shellfish, and freshwater crustaceans. Meat-rich diets encourage vivid coloration.

• Behavior & Tank Mates: Generally peaceful, but as predatory adults, may eat smaller fish. Best kept in groups of 3–5 to establish natural hierarchy. Pairs or larger groups encouraged.

• Maintenance: Requires pristine, well-filtered water. Weekly water changes (20–30%) recommended. Avoid adding to immature or uncycled tanks.