I think I'd go with Onyx sand then maybe.
Or a nice white/light color sand to contrast with wood and darker moss/fern/Crypt.

Something that can be moved around without issue.
I'd stay away from the ADA stuff unless you plan on smaller mellow Botia only, this will make huge mess daily otherwise.


240 is a good size for them, glad you chose a nice size tank.

Give this fish and the plant focus, I'd go very heavy wood, Java ferns, Bolbitus, Crypts etc and moderate/low light,

Crypts grow well in plain sand also with EI dosing.
Flourite might look odd, but the fish will not move it around either.

I'd opt for 2-3mm grain and just do Crypts/Ferns/moss etc

Lots of wood, lots of water changes, moderate dosing and light.

That will be easy to deal with and look good and keep fish happy.
Rose line Barbs might interest you vs the Balas, they also need a tank this to reach their entire life span in a good home.
Rose lines get pretty big and dart around like the balas. Might match better/worst that the balas with the loaches.

I've kept large clowns in some planted tanks in early 1990's(6-8").
They now reside in Steinhart Public aquarium
Not sure how big they are now.



Regards,
Tom Barr