Siamese Algae Eater
Siamese Algae Eater
Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is one of the most consistently effective algae eaters available — remaining a reliable, peaceful algae grazer throughout its life, unlike the Chinese Algae Eater. The slender silver body has a bold dark horizontal stripe running from snout to tail. One of the few fish that effectively consumes red algae (brush algae).
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Mini Algae Wafers placed on rocks and glass supplement the natural algae grazing. Add blanched zucchini or cucumber for additional plant matter. Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes rounds out the omnivorous diet.
Algae-grazing cyprinids from clear, often fast-flowing Asian streams. They rasp algae and biofilm from hard surfaces using sucker-like mouths. Good water quality and moderate flow are beneficial.
Keep in groups of four or more — more active and less territorial in numbers. Compatible with most peaceful community fish.
Effective and attractive algae control for planted and community aquariums.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community algae grazer |
| Typical Adult Size | 4.0–6.0 inches (10–15 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 4 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Mini Algae Wafers; blanched vegetables; Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Mekong basin, Thailand, Malaysia, and surrounding Southeast Asia |
| Notes | Remains effective and peaceful into adulthood. Eats red/brush algae. Does not harass tankmates. Keep in groups of 4+ for best behavior. |
