The Clown Loach (Chromobotia macracanthus) is a vibrant, orange-and-black striped freshwater fish native to the rivers and floodplains of Indonesia, specifically on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo. Renowned for its playful behavior and striking appearance, the Clown Loach is highly sought after in the global aquarium trade rather than for food. Indonesia stands as the top country for harvesting wild Clown Loaches, with local fishers collecting them from their natural habitats, especially during the rainy season when the fish migrate to flooded forests. While some efforts have been made to breed Clown Loaches in captivity, the majority of the international supply, exported primarily to Europe, North America, and East Asia, still comes from wild-caught specimens in Indonesia. This trade is a significant economic activity for local communities, though it has raised concerns about overfishing and the sustainability of wild populations, prompting calls for improved management and captive breeding initiatives.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indonesia | 16 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.