Siamese Algae Eater
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Alert, active and with a voracious appetite, this fish has a reputation as the best algae grazer for planted aquaria. JJPhoto.dk
[edit] Overview
The Siamese Algae Eater is built like a racer and is prized as the best algae eater for planted aquariums. It is distinguished from other Crossocheilus species in having a black longitudinal stripe on its sides. Unlike the similar-looking Flying Fox (Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus), the fins of this species are transparent, and it has only a single pair of barbels on the upper lip. The mouth has thick lips with many folds that form a sucking disc to rasp algae off a variety of surfaces.
Family: Cyprinidae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
Habitat: Does best in a densely planted tank with driftwood or rocky aquascaping where it can graze.
Maximum length: 15 cm (6 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 114 L (30 gal)
Water: Freshwater 22 °C (295 K, 72 °F) - 26 °C (299 K, 79 °F)
General swimming level: On substrate, plants and aquarium decor.
[edit] Feeding
Crossocheilus siamensis feeds on plankton and algae in the wild, and its diet in the aquarium must also include vegetable matter. Provide a variety of Spirulina-based foods, including flakes and wafers, as well as occasional treats of live foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. Unlike most other algae-eating species, it will eat red and black algae, but will not harm plants.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
The Siamese Algae Eater is a peaceful, active species best kept in groups of at least three. It can be somewhat “testy” with its own kind.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
No reports of breeding in the aquarium.
[edit] Notes
Like the Flying Fox, this species also exhibits a peculiar resting position: it keeps its body “propped up” with its tail, pelvic and pectoral fins.
| Common name | Siamese Algae Eater + |
| Family | Cyprinidae + |
| Genus | Crossocheilus + |
| Image credit | JJ + |
| Maximum length | 6 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 30 gal + |
| Native range | Southeast Asia +, Mekong River Basin +, Chao Phraya River Basin +, Xe Bangfai River Basin +, and Malay Peninsula + |
| Reference | 101 Best Tropical Fishes + |
| Specific name | siamensis + |
| Swimming level | On substrate, plants and aquarium decor. + |
| Text credit | KW + |
| Water max temp | 299 K (26 °C, 79 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 295 K (22 °C, 72 °F) + |
| Water type | Freshwater + |