Shy Clown Loach?

Hi Helen,

I think that behaviour is just clown loaches. However, they are very social fish and need to be in groups of at least 6. The fact you have just three might be making it feel a bit insecure.
But before you go out and get another three, can I ask how big the tank is? Clown loaches can grow up to 12 inches (30cm) and need huge tanks in the region of 180cm long. Since it is the larger fish that is hiding away, it may be that your tank is a bit too small for it?

Clown loaches are quite slow growing fish so you do have time to decide what to do - get a bigger tank or rehome them. I quite understand about rescuing them from the previous owner.

Going back to your first post, I forgot about the root ornament. There is a real danger of it getting stuck as it grows. Either take the ornament out of the tank before that happens or if it's the right shape, fill the smaller holes with something. Silicone would be the best but you would have to let the ornament dry first than wait 48 hours for the silicone to cure before putting it back. Or maybe pack some filter wool in the smaller holes?

i have 5 clown loaches and  there shy fish mine spend most of the day time tucked up somewere haveing a nice nap then of a evening and night time they come out to play and are quite happy to wake me up at all times of  the night ( tank is next to my bed )