Keeping different loaches together.

[Nora]

Hi, I have two zebra loaches in my 15 gallon tropical aquarium, with a bunch of guppy fry and lots of plants and big smooth pebbles to hide under.
I was reading about zebra loaches on this site and it reccommended keeping them in groups of 5 or more.
Unfortunately I have not seen them in the pet shop since I bought my two, but they always have clown loaches.
Would zebras and clowns get on, or should I just stick to two zebras?

[Diana]

Here are several reasons why I would not do this:

Loaches in general do not usually socialize with other species. Some can be different levels of aggression or pushiness, too. (Compare to Cories who will often socialize across species)

Clown Loaches will outgrow that tank pretty fast (Juveniles grow fast when they are properly treated), and will ultimately need 100 gallons plus. Mine were ready for a 4' long tank at 1 year, and have since moved into my 125 gallon.