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Are you tired of constantly fighting against unsightlyalgae growthin your bin? Well, put down the scrub brush and let us introduce you to theultimate secret weapon - the Siamese Algae Eater!
Build a Siamese Algae Eater Habitat
Not only are these little fish cute as a button, but they're also incredibly efficient at making your tank look like a million bucks. So, in this fun and informative article, let's dive into everything you need to know about these fascinating creatures!
| Which date | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Crossocheilus siamensis |
| Maat | Tot 15 cm (6 inch) |
| Lifespan | 5-7 years |
| PH value | 6,5-7,5 |
| Water temperature | 72-78°F (22-26°C) |
| Water hardness | 5-12 dGH |
| Tank mate | A minimum of a 30 gallon tank for a group of 3-5 people |
| Eating pattern | A varied diet including high-quality flake or pellet food, algae wafers, frozenartemia, towardsvegetables, frozenbloodworms, driedwater fleas, pellets and live food. |
Appearance
The Siamese Algae Eater, also known as the SAE, is a freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. It has along, slim bodyand a unique, elongated dorsal fin. The body color is typically onedark brown or black with a white belly, and it has a distinctive characterblack line behind its gillsrunning the length of his body. The fins are transparent with a slight yellow or orange tint.
Lifespan
The Siamese Algae Eater has aservice life of 5-8 yearsif stored in optimal conditions.
Average size and growth
The average size of a Siamese algae eater isabout 5-6 inches (15 cm)when they are mature. They have a moderate growth rate and often reach full size within the first year of life.
Tank mate
A tank capacity ofat least 30 gallons (113 liters) is recommendedfor a single Siamese Algae Eater. A larger aquarium is recommended for several fish or for a community aquarium.
Waterparameters
The SAE prefers onepH value between 6.5-7.5and awater temperature between 72-78°F (22-26°C). They also prefer moderate water flow and a well-oxygenated environment.
Eating pattern
The Siamese Algae Eater is oneomnivoreand will eat a variety of foods, including algae, vegetables, and meat-based foods. High-quality flake or pellet food should be the main part of their diet, with an occasional treat of fresh or frozen vegetables and meat. Here's a table of the best food options to consider:
| Food option | Description |
|---|---|
| Algae wafers | The perfect treat for your Siamese Algae Eater, specially formulated to meet their nutritional needs and eat pesky algae. |
| Frozen brine shrimp | A delicious and nutritious frozen treat that provides your SAE with a high protein diet filled with essential vitamins and minerals. |
| Fresh vegetables | Give your Siamese Algae Eater the taste of the wild with fresh vegetables such as spinach, cucumber and zucchini. They not only provide a natural source of fiber, but also essential nutrients for a balanced diet. |
| Frozen bloodworms | Indulge your SAE's carnivorous cravings with these high-protein frozen bloodworms, filled with essential vitamins and minerals. |
Housing Requirements
The Siamese Algae Eater prefers a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places and open swimming space. They also like a well-oxygenated environment, so adding a powerhead or airstone to the aquarium is recommended. They also prefer moderate water flow.
Behavior and temperament
The SAE is a peaceful and active fish that is compatible with a variety of tank mates. They are known for their voracious appetite for algae, making them a great addition to a dietplanted tank. They are also known to swim in schools and can be kept with other peaceful species of fish.
Fucking
Sadly Siamesealgae eaters cannot breed in a home aquarium. An important migratory and environmental element of their reproductive cycle cannot be simulated or reproduced in an aquarium environment.
As an advanced topic for dedicated hobbyists and SAE enthusiasts looking to learn more aboutfuckingSiamese algae eaters, it may be helpful to know that commercial breeders can breed these fish by using hormones to induce spawning. These hormones may include pituitary extract or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs, such as des-Gly 10, [D-Arg6, Pro9-NEt]-GnRH, which are administered in the fish feed or by injection. Using these hormones can increase the number of eggs produced and force reproduction, but it requires specialized knowledge and equipment that is beyond the scope of this article.
Tankmeters
The Siamese Algae Eater is a peaceful fish that is compatible with a variety of tank mates. They can be kept with other peaceful fish species such astetra's,rasbora'sand gouramis. They should not be kept with aggressive or territorial fish species.
| Tank mates | Description |
|---|---|
| Neon tetra's | These small and lively fish are a perfect match as they thrive in similar water conditions and have a peaceful disposition. |
| Harlequin Rasboras | These active and hardy fish make great tank mates, adapting well to similar water conditions and adding some activity to the tank. |
| Guppies | Guppies with their bright colors and peaceful natures are a great option, adding both color and balance to the tank. |
| Salaries | Platy are hardy fish that adapt well to similar water conditions and make great tank mates. |
| Endlersliving dragons | These small and peaceful fish are a great option as they have similar water needs and add some color to the tank. |
| Spirit Shrimp | These scavengers are a great addition to the tank, they can help keep the tank clean. |
| Corydoras catfish | These bottom fish are a great option as they adapt well to similar water conditions and also help keep the tank clean. |
| Otocinclus catfish | These small and peaceful fish are a perfect match as they adapt well to similar water conditions and help keep the tank clean by feeding on algae. |
| Amano Shrimp | These scavengers are a great addition to the tank, they can help keep the tank clean. They are known as one of the best algae eaters. |
| Bamboo Shrimp | These scavengers are a great addition to the tank, they can help keep the tank clean and are interesting to observe. |
Siamese algeneters vs Flying Fox vs Chinese algeneters
Siamese Algae Eaters, Flying Fox, and Chinese Algae Eaters are all fish species that are often confused with each other in theaquariumhobbyand often misrepresented in stores that stock and sell this fish. While they all have similarities in appearance and behavior, there are distinct differences that can help you tell them apart.
- Siamese algeneter (Crossocheilus siamensis)has a slender and elongated body shape with a silver colored body and dark stripes running vertically down the sides. They have an upright mouth and a pointed snout. The fins are clear and the caudal fin is forked.
- Flying fox (Epalzeorhynchos kallopterus)also has a silver colored body, but with a stockier and more robust body shape and a more rounded snout. They also have a dark band that runs vertically through the eye, which is a key difference from the Siamese algae eater.
- Chinese Algae(Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)has a similar body shape to the Flying Fox, but with a more orange colored body and a more pointed snout. They also have a long and pointed dorsal fin, which is an important difference from the Siamese algae eater and the flying fox.
Remark:The Siamese Algae Eater is a peaceful fish that can be kept with other species, while the Flying Fox and Chinese Algae Eater can become aggressive as they age and are not recommended for community tanks.
Diseases and illnesses
SAE, like other aquarium fish, can be susceptible to certain diseases and conditions. In this section, we'll discuss the two most common diseases and conditions in Siamese Algae Eaters, their symptoms, and the best treatments for each.
- I (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
Ich, also known as "white spot disease," is a parasitic infection that can affect Siamese algae eaters. Theparasitesattach to the fish's skin, fins, and gills, causing small white spots to appear on the fish's body. Ich symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite and scratching against surfaces in the tank.
- Velvet (Oodinium pilularis)
Velvet is a parasitic infection caused by a single-celled organism called Oodinium pilularis. The parasites attach to the fish's body and cause a velvety or powdery appearance to the fish's skin, fins, and gills. Symptoms of Velvet include lethargy, loss of appetite and rapid breathing.
In terms of treatment, you can try the following for these conditions:
- Formalin:Formalin is a formaldehyde-based drug. It is usually combined with a malachite green solution.
- Copper Sulphate:Copper sulfate is a common medication option. Besides the fact that too much copper can be harmful to fish, this is also not a viable solution if you have invertebrates that are copper sensitive, such as shrimp.
- salt bath:A salt bath is a treatment where the infected fish is placed in a separate tank with a high concentration of aquarium salt. This method can be effective, but it is important to monitor the health of the fish during treatment.
- Increase water temperature to 86°F (30°C):This can force the parasites to flee their host as they seek more habitable temperatures.
History and origin
The Siamese Algae Eater, also known as theCrossocheilus siamensis, is a freshwater fish native to the streams, canals and rivers of Southeast Asia. They are mainly found in the countries of Thailand, Laos and Vietnam.
The Siamese algae eater was first described by Belgian ichthyologist Pieter Bleeker in 1852. It was first collected in Thailand's Chao Phraya River and later found in other Southeast Asian countries.
In the aquarium hobby, the SAE was first imported to the United States in the early 1960s, but was not widely available until the 1980s. They quickly became popular for their hardiness and their ability to control algae growth in tanks. They are considered a hardy and peaceful fish that can be kept with a variety of other species.
In the wild, Siamese algae eaters are known as migratory fish, migrating in schools and swimming upstream during the rainy season to spawn. They are known to be a good algae fighting fish, and are known to consume several types of algae that other aquatic algae eaters often ignore.
That concludes our fun and informative journey into the world of the Siamese algae eater. We hope you enjoyed learning about these amazing creatures and are now inspired to try them in your own aquarium. Go out and conquer that nasty algae with the help of these superheroes in fins.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I keep Siamese Algae Eaters with other fish species?
Yes, Siamese Algae Eaters are compatible with a variety of peaceful fish species such as tetras, rasboras and gouramis. - Do Siamese algae eaters eat all kinds of algae?
Siamese Algae Eaters eat a variety of algae, but they are best known for their ability to control the growth of algaeblack beard algae. - Q: What is the best way to determine the sex of a Siamese Algae Eater?
A: The best way to determine the sex of a Siamese Algae Eater is by looking at the shape of the dorsal fin. Male Siamese Algae Eaters have a more pointed and elongated dorsal fin, while females have a more rounded dorsal fin.
Tim Priest
Tim Priest, a renowned aquarium expert with over 15 years of experience in aquatic gardening and fish education, is committed to helping enthusiasts create stunning and thriving aquatic environments. As founder ofLearnTheAquarium.com, Tim shares his wealth of knowledge, passion and expertise through engaging articles, learning resources and personalized advice.
Discover the secrets of creating captivating underwater landscapes and maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems. Join Tim on an exciting journey andlet your aquarium adventure begin!
FAQs
Siamese Algae Eater: Complete Care Guide - Get to know the aquarium? ›
Care is simple for the Siamese Algae Eater. It is tolerant of a wide range of water parameters, but it will thrive in an aquarium with ample filtration and moderate to high water flow. This active fish is known to jump occasionally, so a secure aquarium lid is recommended.
How do you take care of a Siamese algae eater? ›Care is simple for the Siamese Algae Eater. It is tolerant of a wide range of water parameters, but it will thrive in an aquarium with ample filtration and moderate to high water flow. This active fish is known to jump occasionally, so a secure aquarium lid is recommended.
What do Siamese Algae Eaters need? ›Siamese algae eater can live at a wide range of water parameters, but it prefers neutral or a bit acidic water. Recommend water temperature is between 24–26 °C (75–79 °F), acidity – pH 6.5-8.0, and a water hardness of 5–20 dH. The fish prefers well-circulating water reach with oxygen.
What are the water conditions for Siamese Algae Eaters? ›Since Siamese are a tropical fish that lives in freshwater streams and rivers with lower current action, keep the aquarium water temperature set at 75°F to 79°F for best results. The ideal water hardness range is between 5 and 20 dH.
What temperature should a Siamese algae eater tank be? ›Siamese Algae Eaters can grow up to about 6 inches (16cm) and hence require a tank of at least 30 gallons for better results. Water temperature should be between 75°F and 79°F and a pH range of between 6.5 and 7.0.
Should I let algae grow in my fish tank? ›Algae is actually a good thing for your aquarium's ecosystem because many fish and invertebrates like to eat it and it helps clean the water as a form of filtration. Plus, certain algae can look attractive and make an aquarium seem more natural.
Do Siamese algae eaters like to hide? ›HABITAT: The Siamese algae eater is a type of fish that can be found in freshwater habitats throughout Southeast Asia. They are bottom dwellers and prefer to spend their time near plants or other hiding places on the ground where they feel comfortable and safe.
Can I keep a single Siamese algae eater? ›Siamese Algae Eaters can be kept single or in small groups, in which case, you should give each fish roughly 10 gallons of space. While not extremely aggressive, they can sometimes be territorial towards their own species.
Will Siamese algae eater eat small fish? ›Bristlenose plecos and Siamese Algae Eaters are also unlikely to harm other fish, but their fairly large size means that predation of smaller fish can't be ruled out entirely.
How fast do Siamese algae eaters grow? ›Siamese algae-eaters can grow up to 15 centimetres (6 inches) within two years, and live for over 10 years in optimal conditions. They are valued in the aquarium trade for being the only known fish species to consume red algae, including 'black brush' or 'beard' algae.
Do Siamese algae eaters jump out of tank? ›
The Siamese Algae Eater is a hardy fish that is tolerant of most water conditions and can live in aquariums with plenty of filtration and moderate to high water movement. Despite its hardiness, it is known to jump out of the tank at times, so be sure to have a secure cover on the tank.
Do Siamese algae eaters eat algae off plants? ›Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus)
Siamese algae eaters (SAE) are very active fish that can always be seen grazing on algae by nibbling on the surface of aquatic plants and hardscape. They are wonderful at clearing aquariums that are overgrown with hair or string algae.
Fish exhibit many behaviors that tell us how they are feeling, and glass surfing (also known as pacing) is one of them. This is when fish constantly swim up and down the sides of the aquarium glass. One reason they do this is stress. It could mean they aren't happy in their environment, for one reason or another.
Do Siamese algae eaters need driftwood? ›I've used this food with great success for many years, and algae eaters love them. Also, to keep these fish healthy, you absolutely must provide them with driftwood to rasp on in their aquarium. Driftwood provides much needed fiber in their diet, and they can sicken and even die if there isn't any driftwood available.
How do I know if my aquarium is too cold? ›If your tank temperature is too cold, then your fish's metabolism will slow down, which leads to your fish becoming sluggish and sleepy. On the flipside, water that is too warm causes your fish's metabolism to speed up. Your fish will become more lively or even hyperactive.
Can fish tank lights cause algae? ›Lighting. The type of lighting you are using can greatly affect the growth of nuisance algae in a system. Lighting that has a high amount of green and yellow can increase nuisance algae growth. Orphek LED systems do not use LEDs that promote nuisance algae growth.
Do live plants help with algae? ›Live plants are one of the most effective ways of preventing algae growth in an aquarium, but it takes more than just one or two to be effective. Live plants work best at preventing algae when the aquarium is heavily planted.
Do algae eaters not like light? ›There are many different types of algae out there, but they all have the same basic requirements. First and foremost, algae need water in order to thrive. Next, algae need plenty of light.
How can you tell if a Siamese algae eater is male or female? ›Identifying the gender of Siamese Algae Eater is difficult. They are almost identical, but females are large in size in comparison to males. This is the only visible difference between males and females. Their gender can be identified at the age of 3-4 years.
Do Siamese algae eaters eat black algae? ›Arguably, the best fish for the job is the Siamese Algae Eater. They are known for eating black algae as well as other types of algae. The only concern you may have for these fish is that they get a bit large when they're older, potentially up to 6 inches.
Can a Siamese algae eater live with a betta? ›
Conclusion. Curbing algae growth in your Betta tank can be as simple as introducing an algae eater into the aquarium water. Specific snail species, shrimp, and bottom-dwellers love to eat algae and won't arouse your Betta fish's territorial instincts by venturing where they're not welcome.
Do algae eaters clean fish tanks? ›There are a few different algae eaters to choose from including snails, shrimps and certain algae-consuming fish. They are cheap, they can help to increase the diversification of wildlife in your tank, and they keep your tank clean.
Why is my algae eater attacking my fish? ›There is some evidence to suggest that poorly fed algae eaters are more likely to try to feed on the sides of other fish. Evidence suggests that they attack the slime coat as they are looking for nutrients and will attach to the sides of other fish to try to feed on this.
Are you supposed to feed algae eaters? ›Do I need to feed my algae eater (plecostomus) or will he get enough food from the algae growing in my aquarium? Algae eaters (plecostomus) require ample amounts of vitamins and minerals in their diet in addition to algae and vegetable matter.
What temperature do algae eaters live in? ›Water Parameters
Temperature: Chinese Algae Eaters live in warm tropical waters with a temperature around the 74-80 °F (24-27 ˚C) range. pH: They can survive in a wide pH range, starting from 5.8 till 8.0. Ideally, it would be best if you stayed on the neutral side (around 6.5-7.5).
At some point in the process, you'll notice the beginnings of life in your sterile tank, in the form of an algae bloom. This is a sign that the cycle is nearing completion – there are enough nitrates in the tank to support algae. Get your water tested; either do it yourself, or have your LFS test it.
What is the difference between a flying fox and a Siamese algae eater? ›The flying fox eats mainly algae, but it will also eat vegetation and food flakes. The Siamese algae eater, as its name suggests, primarily eats algae. What makes the difference unique is that the SIamese algae eater also gets red algae and is the only fish in the world known to do so.
Why is my Siamese fighting fish staying at the top of the tank? ›The reason that betta will move towards the surface in a tank that's too cool is that warm water tends to rise to the surface of the tank, meaning the upper layers of water will be the warmest place!
Do fish feel stress in tanks? ›You may gaze into your aquarium sometimes and think about what a peaceful life it must be. After all, fish get to swim around all day in a beautiful tank and get fed and cared for by their owner. Though it seems odd, the truth is that fish can get stressed in much the same way as humans do.
Do algae eaters eat dead plants? ›In the following we'd like to present you some algae-eating aquarium inhabitants, mostly invertebrates like snails and shrimp. Using them has several advantages: besides algae, these animals also eat muck, food rests, dead plant parts and sometimes even dead animals.
Do Siamese algae eaters change color? ›
My two SAE only really lose the stripe and fade when they're bickering with each other, being the same size, usually around feeding time. I wouldn't worry about it unless they stop eating or show any other symptoms or something out of the ordinary. They look pretty shabby when faded!
How long do algae eaters live? ›“Glass surfing” is when a fish – such as betta fish, gouramis, and cichlids – repeatedly swims up and down along the tank walls. It could be caused by stress, boredom, defense of territory, and other reasons.
How long do Siamese algae eaters live for? ›Siamese algae-eaters can grow up to 15 centimetres (6 inches) within two years, and live for over 10 years in optimal conditions. They are valued in the aquarium trade for being the only known fish species to consume red algae, including 'black brush' or 'beard' algae.
Can you keep a single Siamese algae eater? ›Siamese Algae Eaters can be kept single or in small groups, in which case, you should give each fish roughly 10 gallons of space. While not extremely aggressive, they can sometimes be territorial towards their own species.
How big do Siamese algae eater fish get? ›Siamese algae eaters are a popular choice for fish tanks, largely due to their effectiveness in eating red algae. They typically reach about 15 centimetres (6 inches) in length after two years and can live up to 10 years with proper care.
How often do you feed algae eaters? ›Feeding Guide
Feed twice a day. To accommodate the slower feeding habits of most algae eaters, feed the amount of food your fish will consume within two hours.
Siamese Algae Eater
Crossocheilus oblongus (also known as SAE for short) is a 6-inch (15 cm) cleaner fish that is commonly used in larger aquariums. Their downturned mouths are well-suited for eating hair algae, black beard algae, and leftover scraps in the fish tank.
Some algae eaters will eat or attack other fish in the aquarium if they don't have sufficient nutrients and living space. If they don't have enough food, they will seek meals elsewhere; many algae eaters will want to eat the slime coat off their tank mates, which is fatal for smaller types of fish.
Why is my Siamese Algae Eater swimming up and down? ›Fish exhibit many behaviors that tell us how they are feeling, and glass surfing (also known as pacing) is one of them. This is when fish constantly swim up and down the sides of the aquarium glass. One reason they do this is stress. It could mean they aren't happy in their environment, for one reason or another.
Do Siamese Algae Eaters change color? ›
My two SAE only really lose the stripe and fade when they're bickering with each other, being the same size, usually around feeding time. I wouldn't worry about it unless they stop eating or show any other symptoms or something out of the ordinary. They look pretty shabby when faded!