I have a group of three clown loaches - they are amazing fish and get along great with my Oscars (or maybe I should say my Oscars get along great with them:)

As people with Clown Loaches know, they have a 'horn' like mechanism that protrudes under their eyes - these horns can come out when they're threatened, fighting, etc. My biggest loach will "stretch" them out on occasion - like he's yawning or something; then they go right back in.

One of my loaches has just one of his 'horns' stuck out - the other horn has receded normally. I noticed it this morning and it's still stuck out after being at work all day. The fish is frolicking, eating, swimming about, doing normal clown loach things.... no sign of distress. Water is pristine - all readings zero with a bit of normal nitrate.

The only problem is his horn has been stuck out - is this cause for concern? Anything I can do about it? Has anyone had this happen before?

I also had some clowns until fairly recently, last year when they unfortunately died tragically. They normally raise these small eye spikes when they are distressed. Maybe your clown loach is still a little stressed. I wouldn't have thought there was much to worry about, just make sure your water is really good, these fish cannot tolerate poor water conditions

i too have a few clowns, never known the eye spike to get stuck. if the fish is acting normal i wouldn't worry to much as i cant see what else you cant do. keep an eye on it and watch for any swelling. my guess would be its damaged a little while playing/fighting and it will repair and go back to its normal position in a few days. does the eye look clear?
keep us posted how it goes.

Yes Meghan keep us posted as I am a lover of these fish too.
I am reading up on them as well as other fish I am getting for the tank.... cheers

two full days later - the 'eye horn' finally went back.

very strange - the fish was acting fine - no other physical issues (no swelling, flashing, etc.) - just the one side's horn was stuck out.

that's good news, i think like i said may be got a little damaged fighting.

Marcus - I think you're exactly right - they are quite lively with each other - not really fighting; more 'vigorous' play. I'm thankful he/she is ok.

He/she needs a name - hmmm... maybe Spike