SIAMESE ALGAE EATER

Common Name: Siamese Algae Eater

Scientific Name: Crossocheilus oblongus — Siamese Algae Eater

Family: Cyprinidae

Origin: Streams and rivers of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia

SPECIES OVERVIEW

Environment: Clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers with rocky or sandy substrates and submerged vegetation

Body Shape: Slender, elongated body built for efficient swimming

Colouration: Silver-gray body with a bold black horizontal stripe running from nose to tail (stripe may fade depending on mood)

Fins: Transparent; simple and unmarked

CARE REQUIREMENTS

Recommended Aquarium: A long tank with ample open swimming space; allow substantially more room for an adult group.

Temperament: Peaceful and active

Lifespan: 8–10 years

Adult Size: 12–16 cm

WATER PARAMETERS

Temperature: 24–26°C

pH: 6.5–7.5

AQUARIUM SETUP

Water Flow: Moderate

Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

Décor: Driftwood, rocks, dense planting; open swimming spaces important

Filtration: Good filtration with moderate current

DIET & FEEDING

Diet: Omnivorous (primary algae grazer)

Preferred Foods: Algae, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), sinking pellets, occasional live or frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

Provide deliberate feeding rather than relying on aquarium algae alone.

TANKMATES

Compatible Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish (Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Gouramis)

GROUP SIZE

Best kept in groups of 5 or more to minimize territorial behaviour

May become slightly territorial as they mature if kept singly

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Breeding in home aquariums is uncommon.

Confirm identification when purchasing; several similar-looking algae eaters have different care requirements.