Is Gravel Necessary for Clowns?

[smhoffman]

I will be establishing a larger tank for my clowns within the next few months. I will be building a faux rock wall and bottom using concrete over styrofoam. (the concrete will be encased in epoxy to keep the pH and hardness low) I am considering keeping the bottom of the tank bare for cleanliness. Do Clowns absolutely need a substrate they can dig through?

[Martin Thoene]

Yes, and sand is the best.

Martin.

[Mark in Vancouver]

I agree with Martin. Substrate is essential to loach health, and it really improves the health of the tank. Bacteria that contributes to the biofilter collects in the substrate, so if something happens to your filter, you have a backup. Botia loaches produce a substantial amount of poop and mulm, so don't plan on keeping a clean tank. Keeping the tank clean, on the other hand, is good for the fish - and a whole lot of work. Be prepared for that or consider keeping other fish.

[daspricey]

yeah they like to scavenge aswell.
they need quite an established tank. at least 6 months

david