why does my clown loach keep nipping my siamese fighting fish?

Question

I was told that i could have them both in one tank but have to keep them seperated .

Answer 1

If you have a "single" loach (any species), they often become aggressive toward tankmates. This is something most pet stores won't tell you. These fish do best when kept in a group. Unfortunately, for clown loaches this means you'll need a big tank!
http://www.aquatic-hobbyist.com/profiles/freshwater/loaches/clownloach.html

The best thing to do is to separate the fish permanently. If this is not possible, take the one you want least back to the place where you purchased it for a refund - and let them know why!

Answer 2

Clown loaches are not the most laid back fish in the world and can get rather mean. While true they are omnivores, they are not predator fish so it's not trying to eat your betta. It's more likely a territorial response or just plain grumpiness. No matter what one book or another might say, fish are individuals are you can't always rely on the information you get to apply to every single circumstance. If you got the answer by word of mouth, that could be even worse than a book for errors.

You may need to plan on moving the betta to private quarters.

Answer 3

This is somewhat surprising. Clown Loachs are "considered" a peaceful species. Usually the Betta would chase the loach.
But,
I would guess that your Clown was introduced first and probably somewhat larger than you Betta.
Are you feeding them enough and correctly?
Try using some flake food (for the Betta) and some sinking pellets (for the Loach).

Answer 4

Easy meal for the loach. Clown loaches are omnivores. The prefer groups and get to 12" so I hope you have a big enough tank.

Answer 5

Yes don't want them killing eachother.