Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) is to maintain laws banning the export of Clown loaches above 15cm/6†to protect vital brood stocks. That's the size at which Clowns are thought to start spawning.
Traditionally, some 20 million Clown loaches are exported from Indonesia every year, all wild harvested. At this time, and despite some unfounded reports of hormone-induced breeding, no successful farming has yet taken place with this species.
Current collection methods involve lengths of hollowed bamboo lowered into habitats and the fish congregate inside them. When removed from the water, the loaches stay put and can be removed.
This technique and subsequent trade of the fish has created income for many families throughout the region, many of whom now rely upon it.
Why not take out a subscription to Practical Fishkeeping magazine? Check out our latest subscription offer.