Siamese Algae Eater

About

The Siamese Algae Eater is a slender, torpedo-shaped cyprinid from the flowing streams and flooded forests of mainland Southeast Asia, easily told from its many look-alikes by a single bold black stripe running from snout to tail fork over clear, unmarked fins. It is one of the very few aquarium fish that will genuinely eat troublesome hair algae and black beard algae, though its appetite for the job fades as it matures. Peaceful but tireless and reaching around 15 cm, it grows into a boisterous, fast-moving fish that needs a long tank, clean oxygen-rich water and a firm lid.

Care

Give a long, well-oxygenated tank with steady flow, spotless water and a tight lid, as it is a strong jumper. Keep as a single specimen or a group of six or more with space to spread out, alongside similarly robust, fast tankmates.

Diet

Grazes algae and biofilm, including hair and black beard algae when young; supplement with Spirulina foods, algae wafers and blanched vegetables as its algae appetite wanes with age.

Sources

• Seriously Fish — Crossocheilus langei (Siamese Algae Eater)
• Aquarium Co-Op — Care Guide for Siamese Algae Eaters (SAE)