Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus siamensis)

Scientific Name(s): Crossocheilus siamensis, Epalzeorhynchus siamensis

 

Common Name(s): Siamese Algae Eater

 

Family: Cyprinidae

 

Species Type: Cyprinids

 

Maximum Size: 6 inches

 

Life Span: 6 years

 

Natural Habitat: Asian Streams

 

Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons

 

Tank Region: All over

 

Possible Tank Mates: Other peaceful community fish

 

Description:

A wonderful fish that is known to even eat red algae. Not to be confused with the Flying Fox or False Siamese Algae Eater. These fish are jumpers though, and won't hesitate to leap out of the water. A good cover for the tank is required. New owners of this fish might be unnecessarily distressed by their unusual sleeping behavior. It is not uncommon for these fish to sleep nose down, even upside down, either supported by water flow or jammed into or precariously perched upon aquarium decor and equipment. A true sign of distress however , often indicating, stress from water chemistry issues or stress from persecution by other fish is a blanching out of the black lateral stripe, something that should be taken very seriously, and potential causes investigated immediately. Siamese algae eaters regularly blanching out are often only hours away from death.

Siamese algae eaters appreciate the company of their own species and may wane and become overly timid if kept in solitary conditions.This is a communicative species that requires shoal numbers for their full personality to be appreciated, They will sleep in groups, and feed in coordinating lines and rows. They will shoal defensively. This is a consistently active fish that may annoy fish of a more delicate temperament such as discus, and corydoras with their incessant flight behaviour. The author recommends an aquarium of at least 40 gallons for four adult specimens.The positive aspects of allowing this fish a social life cannot be ignored as regards their health and vigor. This fish has nothing in common with the antisocial and territorial Flying Fox as regards personality, and is consistently peaceful throughout its life. Scuffles cause no real injuries.

 

Temperature Range 72°F - 82°F

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pH Range 6.5 - 8

pH 5.0

pH 6.0

pH 7.0

pH 8.0

pH 9.0

 

Hardness 5° - 15°

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Breeding Information: No known way to breed in captivity.

 

Sexing Information: Females tend to be larger than males once maturity is reached.

 

Diet: Omnivorous - feed a well varied diet frozen foods, flakes, pellets and green leafy vegetables such as spinach or lettuce

 

Temperment: Peaceful

 

Common Diseases: None specific to species

 

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Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus siamensis)