Chinese Algae Eater
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A fish that loses its appeal as it grows in the aquarium. JJPhoto.dk
Overview
Although the Chinese Algae Eater has been in the hobby for decades, these loners grow to about a foot (30 cm) in length and aren’t particularly good at eating algae.
They get more belligerent and unattractive with age and are a species to avoid.
Family: Gyrinocheilidae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
- Mekong River Basin
- Chao Phraya River Basin
- Malay Peninsula
- Meklong Basin
Habitat: Stream and river bottoms, flooded areas. In swift currents, it clings to hard substrates with its sucker mouth.
Maximum length: 28 cm (11 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 380 L (100 gal)
Water: Freshwater 25 °C (77 °F) - 29 °C (84 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom.
Feeding
Omnivore. Feeds heavily on vegetable matter, but will also ingest worms, insects, and plankton.
Aquarium Compatibility
Becomes too large and aggressive for most home aquariums.
Notes
In its native countries, it is cooked or made into prahoc, a pungent fish paste.