Because of its capacity to maintain clean tanks, aquarium enthusiasts frequently choose the Siamese algae eater. A valuable addition to many freshwater aquariums, these fish are well-known for their voracious appetite for algae and are frequently thought of as natural tank cleaners.
In addition to being prized for their ability to clean, Siamese algae eaters are also appreciated for their quiet demeanor and unusual appearance. They enhance the aesthetics and functionality of any tank with their sleek, silver bodies and eye-catching black stripe that extends from head to tail.
Because of their ease of maintenance, these fish are good for both novice and seasoned aquarium keepers. If their basic needs are met, they can live happily in community tanks with a wide range of other fish species.
Feature | Description |
Common Name | Siamese Algae Eater |
Scientific Name | Crossocheilus siamensis |
Size | Up to 6 inches |
Color | Grayish body with a black stripe |
Diet | Primarily algae, but will also eat some other foods |
Tank Requirements | Freshwater aquarium with good filtration |
Temperature Range | 72-79°F (22-26°C) |
Compatibility | Generally peaceful; good with most other fish |
Behavior | Active swimmer; likes to stay in schools |
- Features and species diversity of algae eaters
- Appearance of the Siamese algae eater
- Distinctive features of the Siamese algae eater from the imaginary
- Subtleties of care and maintenance
- Siamese algae eater diet
- The process of breeding fish
- How to distinguish a male?
- Neighbors for the Siamese algae eater
- Video on the topic
- Siamese algae eater and foxes
- Siamese algae eater – the main fighter against algae
- Siamese algae eater. About keeping, care and reproduction.
- SIAMESE ALGAE EATER. KEEPING IN AN AQUARIUM
- Siamese algae eater – killer of beard and other hairiness
- Which aquarium fish eat algae in an aquarium. 10 algae eaters for an aquarium. Against algae
Features and species diversity of algae eaters
There is a vast array of fish that belong to the category of algae eaters, and each species has unique characteristics. When this kind of fish is present in the aquarium, it will enable:
- reduce the frequency of cleaning the aquarium;
- prevent water bloom;
- clean up the remains of algae that are invisible to humans.
The fish will maintain the aquarium’s natural order.
Name | Appearance | Features |
Chinese algae eater | A suction -shaped mouth, yellow scales | The structure of the mouth makes them almost universal in the fight against various types of algae. However, Gyrinocheilus cannot eat filamentous algae, black beard and other filamentous algae. The suction cup allows you to remove green plaque on flat surfaces. |
Ancistrus | Can reach 15 cm, males have growths on their heads. Preferably brown. | Need additional feeding with plant food. For example, cucumbers or zucchini. Aggressive towards each other. |
Otocinclus | Has gained popularity due to its miniature size. Adults do not exceed 5 cm. Neon belly. | Very capricious about the composition of water and sensitive to macro- and microelements. Not suitable for beginners. Must be kept in a school. |
Epalceorhynchus piebald | Size up to 15 centimeters. | Does not show interest in neighbors aquarium. Universal in the fight against algae, including black beard. |
But because Siamese algae eaters are native to Thailand, they are the ones who combat red algae.
Appearance of the Siamese algae eater
The body of this small fish is elongated and silvery. Fish with transparent small fins are hyperactive.
As decoration, there is a dark stripe. Its distinctive feature is its tail, which ends where it stretches across the entire body.
The fish’s small whiskers and the serrated stripe both suggest that it is a member of the carp family.
Distinctive features of the Siamese algae eater from the imaginary
In chanterelles, the transparent fin is not extended to the tail by the black stripe that runs along the body. The black stripe on the tail of the Siamese algae eater may temporarily vanish if it is under stress or in an unfavorable environment. The stripe in chanterelles is uncurved and straight.
Owners who pay attention observe behavioral variations. As a result, fish adopt a distinctive position when they rest, lying on the ground or among plants. Siamese fish rest on the ground using their ventral and caudal fins, while chanterelles rest on the ground using their pectoral fins.
Nonetheless, both species are generally highly active and capable of handling the tasks that are entrusted to them. Siamese practically never eats higher plants, cleans the aquarium from algae much more effectively, and does not act aggressively toward neighbors.
Parameter | Siamese algae eater | Fox |
Black stripe on the side | Stretches all the way to the tail, touching its pigment | Does not go beyond the fin, the line is without teeth |
Stripe near the mouth | Outlined | Fuzzy |
Fins | Colorless | Yellow |
Whiskers | 2 | 4 |
Degree of aggressiveness | – | + |
Scale on the back | Each with a black border creates a mesh pattern | Uniformly colored |
Because of its ability to thrive in a variety of water conditions, peaceful disposition, and effectiveness in controlling algae growth, the Siamese algae eater is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts and is an ideal fish for maintaining a clean and well-balanced aquarium environment.
Subtleties of care and maintenance
For those just starting out, the most modest inhabitants of the underwater world are the best choice. The fish can live up to ten years if given proper care.
Algae eaters should be housed in groups of six people. This makes Siamese feel more at ease, and cleaning will be more successful in a larger aquarium (from 100 liters per flock of 6-8 individuals). Fish frequently lie on the ground because of their bladder and body structure, which prevents them from spending all of their time in the water. Barriers and shelters are therefore required.
There should be room for movement and an abundance of live plants. Plants that have thick, large leaves work well for planting. They’ll be occupied by the fish. Any type of substrate will work as soil, but tiny pebbles work best. Aeration is a particularly crucial requirement for maintaining a Siamese algae eater due to the conditions of its natural habitat. Clean, running water can be provided with the aid of a filter. It doesn’t matter if the light is bright or diluted.
Every week, up to 25% of the water needs to be replaced.
Siamese diners are a gregarious species. A cover that covers the water’s edge, such as a lid, is required to keep people from jumping out.
Duckweed or riccia can be used because it creates a "carpet" on the surface and prevents people from jumping out. It makes sense to restrict moss. Siamese algae eaters consider them to be a luxury food.
Siamese algae eater diet
The diet is based mostly on algae. However, their quantity will usually be insufficient in aquariums. Bait is required for fish growth and health and can take the following forms:
- bloodworms;
- Aulophorus;
- Gammarus;
- granulated food;
- tablet food;
- homemade minced bait.
Many foods that are tailored to the requirements of algae eaters are available at pet stores. Food on tablets sinks to the bottom very quickly. Food for algae eaters should consist of the following ingredients:
- spirulina algae;
- plant fibers;
- cellulose;
- mollusks and shrimps;
- animal protein extracts;
- carotenoids.
Vitamins, macro- and microelements sustain the fish’s essential functions and promote good growth. Small portions of feed should be given once a day so that the fish can finish it.
To feed, make use of:
- cucumbers, zucchini;
- sweet peppers, eggplants;
- lettuce, cabbage, including cauliflower;
- spinach.
Vitamins, minced meat, and ready-made mixes are available for this species in pet stores.
The process of breeding fish
Only in natural environments is reproduction feasible, given that temperature gradients are applied gradually. It is really challenging to duplicate this at home.
Hormones are used by farms to breed new children.
How to distinguish a male?
Although it is possible, determining the sex of an individual in this species is not an easy task. The female’s body has a more rounded shape. It appears round when viewed from above, so you can assess it that way. It is advisable to speak with the seller before making a purchase because, at first look, the differences are not obvious.
Neighbors for the Siamese algae eater
A peaceful species that is uninterested in most fish.
It is not appropriate to keep it with the following animals:
- two-color labeo;
- territorial cichlids;
- veiltail fish.
In schools, a hierarchy is created so that two men can act violently against one another. Carp, tetragonopterus, mettinis, and tetras are also appropriate.
An excellent addition to any aquarium, particularly for those with ongoing algae problems, is the Siamese algae eater. They are a great help in keeping a clean and well-balanced tank environment because of their amiable disposition and effective algae consumption.
These fish are great at keeping algae under control, but their lively swimming patterns and fascinating behavior also give the aquarium a special dynamic. Suitably sized tanks and a well-balanced diet are just two examples of the proper maintenance that will keep your Siamese algae eaters happy and healthy.
All things considered, aquarium enthusiasts of all skill levels will find the Siamese algae eater to be a great option. Their ability to combat algae and their low maintenance needs make them an excellent choice for any aquatic setup.