Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) Import

The Siamese Algae Eater is a hardworking freshwater fish prized for its exceptional algae-eating capabilities. Native to Southeast Asia, this active and peaceful species is a popular addition to community tanks, especially for aquarists looking to control algae growth in larger aquariums.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Grows up to 15 cm (6 inches) in length.
• Coloration: A slender, silver-gray body with a distinctive black stripe running from the head to the tail. The stripe may fade when the fish is stressed or resting.
• Body Shape: Streamlined and elongated, with a slightly flattened underside.
• Fins: Transparent with a hint of silver.

Behavior and Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; thrives in groups but can be kept singly.
• Tankmates: Compatible with most community fish, including tetras, rasboras, barbs, Corydoras, and gouramis. Avoid housing with overly aggressive or territorial species.
• Activity: Active swimmers, often seen darting around the tank or grazing on surfaces.

Habitat Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons for a single fish; larger tanks are recommended for groups.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 23°C–27°C (73°F–81°F).
  • pH: 6.5–8.0.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (5–20 dGH).
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their sensitive barbels.
• Environment:
  • Provide plenty of open swimming space.
  • Include driftwood, rocks, and live plants to mimic their natural habitat and provide grazing surfaces.
  • Moderate water flow to replicate the moving streams they inhabit in the wild.

Diet:

• Omnivorous:
  • Primarily consumes algae in the tank, including black beard algae and green algae.
  • Supplement diet with:
    • Algae wafers
    • Blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach
    • High-quality sinking pellets or flakes
    • Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms (occasionally).

Care Tips:

1. Social Dynamics: Keep in groups of 3–5 individuals for natural social behavior, but ensure sufficient space.
2. Water Quality: Maintain clean and stable water conditions, as they are sensitive to poor water quality.
3. Diet Diversity: Ensure they receive a varied diet beyond algae for optimal health and growth.

Breeding:

• Reproduction: Rarely breeds in home aquariums, as they require specific water flow and conditions.
• Behavior: Males may display slight territorial behavior during breeding seasons in the wild.
• Fry Care: Breeding in captivity is uncommon, with few recorded successes.

Why Choose Siamese Algae Eaters?

• Algae Control: Among the best fish for controlling algae in aquariums, especially black beard algae.
• Peaceful Nature: Compatible with a wide range of tankmates in community setups.
• Active and Hardy: Easy to care for and thrives in most well-maintained tanks.

The Siamese Algae Eater is a perfect choice for aquarists seeking an active, hardy, and functional addition to their tank. Its efficient algae-cleaning capabilities and peaceful temperament make it a staple in many freshwater aquariums.