How difficult is it to keep Siamese Algae Eater?

Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.

What is the ideal temperature for Siamese Algae Eater?

The ideal temperature for Siamese Algae Eater is 24〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the lifespan of Siamese Algae Eater?

The average lifespan of Siamese Algae Eater is 5-10 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Siamese Algae Eater get?

Siamese Algae Eater typically reaches 10-15cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Siamese Algae Eater?

Siamese Algae Eater feeds on: Algae, pellets, frozen food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Siamese Algae Eater?

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

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Siamese Algae Eater

Beginner

One of few fish that eats black beard algae. Valued for planted tank algae control. Becomes somewhat aggressive when mature.

Difficulty

Beginner

Temperature

22〜28℃

Lifespan

5-10 years

Size

10-15cm

Diet

Algae, pellets, frozen food

About

The Siamese algae eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is a cyprinid fish native to the Chao Phraya and Mekong River basins of mainland Southeast Asia and the Malay Peninsula. Its singular claim to fame in the aquarium hobby is its willingness to consume black beard algae (Compsopogon species) — a stubborn, brush-like algae that most other algae-eating fish and invertebrates refuse to touch. This makes it an invaluable addition to planted aquariums struggling with this persistent problem. Adults reach 15–16 cm. The body is silver with a solid black stripe running continuously from the snout tip to the end of the tail fin. Confusion with the similar-looking flying fox (Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus) and 'false' Siamese algae eaters is common; key distinguishing features include the unbroken black stripe extending into the tail and the absence of barbels. Juvenile individuals are peaceful, but adults develop territorial tendencies toward bottom-dwelling tankmates. Solo keeping is generally more settled than keeping multiples.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)