How difficult is it to keep Chinese Algae Eater?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the ideal temperature for Chinese Algae Eater?

The ideal temperature for Chinese Algae Eater is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the lifespan of Chinese Algae Eater?

The average lifespan of Chinese Algae Eater is Can exceed 15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Chinese Algae Eater get?

Chinese Algae Eater typically reaches Up to 28cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Chinese Algae Eater?

Chinese Algae Eater feeds on: Algae, vegetable-based dried foods, animal foods such as frozen bloodworm. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Chinese Algae Eater?

The price of Chinese Algae Eater varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Chinese Algae Eater

Intermediate

Gyrinocheilus aymonieri

A fish that clamps onto rock and glass with a sucker-like mouth to rasp algae. Juveniles graze algae, but it reaches 28cm and grows increasingly territorial, so it does not suit a community tank.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

22〜26℃

Lifespan

Can exceed 15 years

Size

Up to 28cm

Diet

Algae, vegetable-based dried foods, animal foods such as frozen bloodworm

About

Gyrinocheilus aymonieri lives in the Mekong, Chao Phraya and neighbouring rivers of Southeast Asia. FishBase gives a standard length of 28.0cm, and Seriously Fish likewise 280mm. It clamps onto solid surfaces in flowing water with its sucker-like mouth and rasps algae, periphyton and phytoplankton, though it also takes insect larvae and zooplankton. Because the mouth is used for attachment, it breathes by drawing water in through a small spiracle and passing it over the gills. Juveniles are sold cheaply as algae eaters, but the fish becomes increasingly territorial as it grows, and Seriously Fish states plainly that it is unsuitable for a community. It is especially aggressive towards similar-looking fishes such as Garra and Epalzeorhynchos, and it may attach to the flanks of larger tankmates to feed on their mucus. Seriously Fish gives a 150 x 45cm tank of about 304 litres, 22-26C, pH 6.0-8.0 and 2-20dGH. There is no record of aquarium breeding, and trade stock is hormone-induced. IUCN status is Least Concern.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Chinese Algae Eater

The Chinese Algae Eater lives Can exceed 15 years.

Size of the Chinese Algae Eater

The Chinese Algae Eater grows to Up to 28cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Chinese Algae Eater

The ideal temperature for the Chinese Algae Eater is 22〜26℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Southeast Asia (Mekong, Chao Phraya and neighbouring basins)

Care Specifications

pH: 6–8
Hardness (GH): 2–20 dGH
Water Temp.: 22–26℃
Min. Tank: 304 L

AggressiveSolitaryBreeding: Very hard

Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Gyrinocheilus aymonieri (Tirant, 1883)

Authority databases: FishBase

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern

Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.