Comment by Robert Jango on October 28, 2013 at 11:52am

Was there a Halloween Party this past weekend? Were any of the other fishes wearing scary masks? It may be another fish that's scaring them or it may be that large animal peering inside the tank. (you)

 But seriously, its hard to account for an individual fishes feelings, and Clown Loaches are skittish to begin with.  They'll probably get more comfortable as time passes and they begin to explore their new surroundings.  According to Dustin they like to school.  Schooling makes fish feel safe. (Safety in numbers). Smaller, dither fish may also help. Guppies are great for this purpose. Other than that I really don't know. 

Comment by Antanas Mingela on October 28, 2013 at 12:11pm

Yeah they need some friends ( other loaches)

Comment by Chuck P on November 3, 2013 at 6:53am

If you provide several hiding spots throughout the tank, not just one, they will be more apt to swim about.  Even heavily planted sections of the tank will do the trick.  Also, they need about a month in a new tank to feel comfortable to swim about.  After that, you should see them cruising around.  They're very entertaining to watch so it's worth the effort.

Comment by Bob Fletcher on November 11, 2013 at 4:59pm

I have found that loaches are intimidated by the very bright lighting I use to grow my plants. I have those lights on a timer, and then use a dim mood light to see the fish at night (cue Barry White music). My loaches are invisible all day long, but come out late at night when my dim lighting is on. They also are more comfortable if there are lots and lots of easy access hiding spots.

Comment by Fry on November 12, 2013 at 11:32am

I have 2 yoyos I see them a few times a month lol I put a hidden cave in the back of the tank I am guessing they like it in there. But I have 30fish in my 40 sometimes the tank looks empty since there are so many plants they can hide in

Comment by Robert Jango on November 12, 2013 at 11:34am

I think Bob's right.  Most fish seem to prefer dimmer lighting and swimming under something like floating plants or wood. In my pond the fish were least shy during dawn.  Under the full sun they were nervous. 

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