Since Chinese Algae Eaters tend to be omnivorous (more carnivore) as they mature, their diet should be supplemented with meatier food, such as:
- frozen crustaceans and fry,
- live and frozen foods like bloodworms, blackworms,
- vitamin-enriched brine shrimp,
- daphnia.
What should I Feed my Chinese algae eater?
What kind of fish eats the most algae?
- Plecostomus bristlenose (Bristlenose plecos) Most aquariums benefit from the inclusion of bristlenose plecos.
- Siamese Algae Eater Siamese Algae Eater Siamese Algae Eat
- Algae Eater from China.
- Catfish Otocinclus
- Catfish with twigs.
- Snail of Nerite.
- Shrimp with Cherries
- Shrimp Amano
Do Chinese algae eaters actually eat algae good?
The Chinese algae-eater is not from China; it’s from Thailand. Nor is it a good algae-eater, though it will eat some slime algae when young. If not eating algae was the worst of it, it would be no big deal, but it gets worse. Chinese algae-eaters become quite aggressive when they grow.
What is a true Siamese algae eater?
“ Siamese Algae Eater ” is the generic name for a group of closely-related bottom-feeding fish native to Southeast Asia. Wild populations are found in rivers and streams in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia, but may also live in flooded areas during the rainy season. Unique populations exist throughout the region.
How big does a Chinese algae eater get?
The average Chinese Algae Eater size can get around 10 or 11 inches in length when fully grown. Sometimes in captivity, they can be a lot smaller (usually around 6 inches) if you place them in the minimum recommended tank size. Some home aquarists have been able to get theirs to surpass this size, but those instances are uncommon.
What do you feed a Chinese Algae Eater?
These fish will appreciate the addition of live or frozen foods as well, and they can be fed bloodworms, blackworms, daphnia and brine shrimp. Chinese algae eaters tend to only take their food from the bottom or midsection of their tank, so it's important to offer them sinking foods.
Do you have to feed Chinese algae eaters?
Food & Diet Recommendations The interesting thing about Chinese Algae Eaters is that their diets tend to change as they get older. When they are young, these fish have no problem feeding off algae. Many owners don't even feed them because they get ample nutrients from cleaning up the tank.
What can you feed algae eaters?
While algae eaters subsist mainly on algae and decaying plant matter, in order to be healthy, they require a vegetable supplement to their diet. In addition to offering algae eater food such as spirulina flakes or algae wafers, offer your algae eaters fresh, boiled, or blanched vegetables once in a while.
What do gold Chinese algae eaters eat?
In the wild, Chinese algae eaters feed on algae, which the fish scrape from rocks and plants using their sucker mouths. Although the Chinese algae eater's diet is composed mostly of plants, the fish also eats protein sources such as maggots.
How do I know if my algae eater is getting enough food?
After you provide food for your pleco, watch and see if your pleco gobbles it down. If your pleco immediately begins to munch on the food, they may be overly hungry and need to be fed more often. If your pleco ignores the food, they may need to be fed less often.
What do algae eaters eat when there is no algae?
Algae eaters move along the sides and bottom of the aquarium scraping off algae with their sucker mouths. They can also feed on commercial pelleted food. Choose spirulina pellets or algae discs of the appropriate size.
When should I feed my algae eater?
Feeding. A well-balanced Chinese algae eater diet consists of: Algae and sinking algae wafers. Supplement with raw zucchini or cucumbers as a treat once or twice a week; raw vegetables should be anchored near the bottom of the aquarium.
How do you tell if a Chinese algae eater is male or female?
Male Vs. Female Algae Eaters An adult male Chinese algae-eater will develop tubercules or "horns" on the nose. An adult female will have a much thicker and rounder body than a male, whose body is thin and narrow.
Do algae eaters eat normal fish food?
What is this? Although they may not eat hair algae or beard algae, they do enjoy eating the more common types, such as the green variety and brown algae too, among others. In general, these fish make for great tank cleaners, as they are bottom feeders that will also eat uneaten fish food and all sorts of detritus too.
Will Chinese algae eaters eat other fish?
They also shouldn't have flat bodies that the Chinese algae eater could latch onto. For these reasons, fellow tank mates like angelfish, goldfish, and other similar fish aren't recommended. Other than needing their own territory, these algae eaters are most known for, well, eating algae!
Do Chinese algae eaters eat snails?
Inverts such as dwarf shrimp and freshwater snail should not be introduced into a tank with Chinese Algae Eater as they are very likely to get attacked. This fish can suck the snails out of their shells. It is possible to keep them with shrimp or snails when they are young and small.
Do Chinese algae eaters eat shrimp?
The shrimp do a great job cleaning the substrate and the plants, but they just can't clean glass the way a sucker-mouth fish can. is a color morph of the Chinese Algae-eater, Gyrinocheilus aymonieri. They reach a length of up to 10 inch and they eat baby-shrimps.
How do you keep algae eaters alive?
Chinese algae eater careWater care: Maintaining great water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration is important to help keep your Chinese algae eater healthy. Daily: Check filter, water temperature and other equipment. ... Avoid overcrowded conditions; they are a major cause of stress and disease.
Are Chinese algae eaters Hardy?
Chinese algae eaters are hardworking and hardy, two of the best traits any fish can have! Beginners and experienced keepers alike benefit from their easy care and massive appetite. But despite these great benefits, there are also some serious drawbacks to adding this fish to your aquarium.
Do algae eaters keep tank clean?
Algae eaters (also known as a clean up crew) are an integral part of the aquarium hobby, due to their ability to manage and help keep your tank's ecosystem balanced. And an effective algae eater won't just keep algae under control.
Can a Chinese algae eater live in a pond?
The Chinese algae eater does well in a community of fish, both in ponds and aquariums. They are herbivores by nature and live along with both koi and goldfish in ponds. The Chinese algae eater is not a territorial fish.
What is the name of the algae eater?
This species belongs to the genus Gyrinocheilus, and includes other species: Spotted Algae Eater Gyrinocheilus pennocki and Borneo Algae Eater Gyrinocheilus pustulosis unlike Gyrinocheilus aymonieri, they are rarely seen in the aquarium trade.
Why are Chinese algae eaters so popular?
They are loved by most aquarists because of their effective role in cleaning up the tank and keeping it algae-free. Although this is a job they do best at a juvenile stage, their dietary preference alters in favor of meatier and live foods as they mature. Keep reading for everything there is to know about the Chinese Algae Eater, ...
How long does it take for a Chinese algae eater fry to hatch?
The incubation period is pretty short, it takes only one day. However, the percentage of healthy eggs is extremely small due to the susceptibility of eggs to fungal diseases. Whitened eggs should be removed at once. The Chinese Algae Eater fry are not aggressive to each other.
How to make Chinese algae eaters feel comfortable?
The best way to make Chinese Algae Eater feel lively and comfortable is to mimic their natural habitat. You can place large smooth rocks on the substrate, in addition to artificial caves, driftwood, PVC pipes, and twisted roots, these will give them a place to hide or explore. They are very timid fish.
How long do Chinese algae eaters live?
Under proper care and good water condition, the Chinese Algae Eater can live up to 10 years. The species is characterized by the presence of an elongated body, yellow eyes with a black ball, and an interior sucker mouth which they use to anchor to surfaces and scrape algae.
What does Gyrinocheilus mean?
Note: The word Gyrinocheilus is derived from two separate Greek words, ‘Gyrinos’ which means “Tadpole”, and ‘Cheilos’ which means “Lip ” (due to the somewhat triangular, tadpole-like mouth shape).
When was the Chinese algae eater first described?
The Chinese Algae Eater, Gyrinocheilus aymonieri was first described by Tirant in 1883. It was named after the French linguist and explorer, Étienne François Aymonier. Chinese Algae Eater was first exported to Germany in 1956 for the aquarium trade, prior to that, they were used as a food fish in the native countries.
What is the water temperature for Chinese algae eaters?
Temperature: These fish must be kept in water that is 75-80°F. pH Range: A pH range of 5.5 – 8 is acceptable. Hardness: Make sure the water stays within 8 – 10 KH.
Why are long tanks better for Chinese algae eaters?
They are also better because it is easier to establish strong water movement throughout all levels , which the Chinese algae eaters prefer.
How big do albino Chinese algae eaters grow?
These varieties are a vivid, solid gold in color. They can grow up to 5” and need quite a bit of space to themselves to spread out and search for food.
What is the best cleaner for algae?
When algae are present in the tank, Chinese algae eaters are one of the best cleaners to employ.
Why do Chinese algae eaters stay at the bottom of the bed?
During specific seasons, the waters may flood and become muddy. To avoid being pulled downstream, the Chinese algae eater makes sure to stay along the bottom of the bed. Here, there are many rocks and other obstacles to soften the water’s current.
Where do algae eaters live?
Natural Habitat. Considering its name, most people would guess this algae eater is native to China. However, it’s actually more commonly found in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. In these countries, they inhabit warm and fast-flowing rivers and lakes comprised of sand, driftwood, and some vegetation.
How hot should a fish tank be for Chinese algae eaters?
They have a small range of acceptable temperatures, but all of the temperatures are over 70 °F. For larger tanks, it’s recommended to have two heaters. Either turn both on to more easily heat the tank, or set one at a lower temperature to kick in if the primary heater fails.
How long do Chinese algae eaters live?
The typical Chinese Algae Eater lifespan is around 10 years. This makes them a fish that’s better suited for aquarists who are interested in making a reasonable commitment. Casual hobbyists might do better owning a species with a shorter lifespan. As always, many factors can contribute to their overall lifespan.
What is an algae eater?
The Chinese Algae Eater is a freshwater fish that comes with a mixed reputation. Some aquarists think they’re very aggressive, others believe they only eat algae, and a few mistake them for another species entirely!
How do Chinese algae eaters stay stationary?
The rivers that these Chinese Algae Eaters occupy are quite fast. In these waters the fish stay stationary in their habitat by latching onto smooth rocks. You can recreate a powerful water flow with a good pump. Direct the outlet towards the side of the tank to keep the water circulating at all times.
How many gallons of water do Chinese algae eaters need?
At the very least, these fish need 30 gallons. That number is assuming you only have one Chinese Algae Eater in your aquarium. Author Note: While you can see success with 30 gallons, we always recommend getting a slightly bigger tank (aim for 50 gallons).
What are the characteristics of a Chinese algae eater?
Perhaps the most noteworthy physical feature of the Chinese Algae Eater is their mouth. These fish have a large mouth and sizable lips.
Why do Chinese fish eat ich?
They can experience common conditions that affect all freshwater fish, such as Ich. Ich is caused by stress, which is usually a direct result of poor water conditions. Again, maintaining those parameters from earlier is crucial. Chinese Algae Eaters are also prone to bloat.
Where do squid fish live?
Despite their name, these fish are most commonly found outside of China. They are native to the Chao Phraya basin and can be found living in rivers throughout Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand.
Overview
Chinese Algae Eaters are freshwater fishes and go by a few other names also, like Honey Suckers and Sucking Loache. Their names may deceive you as these are rarely found in China and closely originate from Thailand and Vietnam. The long lifespan of Chinese Algae Eaters will surely enchant your interest in them.
Origin and Habitat of Chinese Algae Eater
Chinese Algae Eaters are commonly found in mountain streams and lakes of Thailand, Kalimantan Peninsula, Laos and Vietnam. The wild Chinese Algae Eaters are not exported from their natural habitat, rather, the ones grown in hatcheries are used for sale.
Appearance of Chinese Algae Eater
They have a majestic appearance along with an elongated body and small fins. With an inferior sucker mouth and pronounced lips, these fishes cling to the sand surface when the water current becomes high.
Behaviour of Chinese Algae Eater
Though this species likes to live alone, still, they don’t mind sharing their space with small fishes. When kept alone, they keep by themselves and do not create any trouble.
Lifespan of Chinese Algae Eater
The lifespan of Chinese Algae Eaters is typically 10 years and in their whole lifespan, they remain your best pet. However, their years of living is generally dependent on the type of space, care, nutrition and water.
Diet of Chinese Algae Eater
Since these fishes feed on algae, they prefer to stay at bottom of the water bodies. Wild Chinese Algae Eaters rasp on sands and rocks to scrape off algae through their sucker mouth. However, they do not feed on algae only and while dwelling in rocky tributaries, they feed on maggots, which provide them huge protein.
Tank Requirements for Chinese Algae Eater
These are mainly wild fishes, but still, to maintain them in captivity you must maintain the required tank conditions and regularly follow our guide.
1. What To Feed Young Chinese Algae Eaters
Chinese algae eaters need more to eat than just the algae in your aquarium. Chinese algae eaters need to be fed, just like your other fish. They will need sinking food so they can “find” the food. When they are young, they will need mostly algae wafers supplemented with protein based foods like blood worms and flake food.
2. What Feed Adult Chinese Algae Eaters
As your Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) gets older, they will want to switch to a mostly protein diet. In the wild, the juvenile CAE will graze on algae because it is easy to get into their oddly shaped mouth.
5. Where To Collect Chinese Algae Eaters In The Wild
Chinese algae eaters originally came from Southeast Asia, including Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Their they are used as food fish and in the aquarium trade.
6. What Is The Natural Environment Of Chinese Algae Eaters?
Chinese algae eaters’ natural habitat is in fast flowing (clean water) streams. The water in these streams in well oxygenated, so make sure your tank water is well agitated. Powerheads for airflow and water flow would probably work best.
9. Fish That Are Safe To Keep With Your Chinese Algae Eater
Because Chinese algae eaters can be aggressive with their own species or similar species, its best to keep one to a tank or (if you have a huge aquarium) in groups of five or more so that the aggression is shared / passed around.
12. Aquarium Conditions Best Suited For Your Chinese Algae Eater
The Chinese algae eater needs a tank appropriate for its full-grown adult size. The adult size of a Chinese algae eater can range from 6 inches to 11 inches for an older, well cared for specimen. A lightly stocked tank of at least 30 gallons would be a minimum. I would recommend a lightly stocked tank of 55 gallons or larger.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Everything you wanted to know about Chinese algae eaters.
What to put in fish tank for algae?
Another great addition to your tank is several smooth rocks. These will easily collect algae that your fish will be more than happy to consume. The smoothness of the rock will provide a space for the fish to latch onto while eating.
How long do Chinese algae eaters live?
The typical lifespan of a Chinese Algae Eater is from ten years. Under optimum conditions, this fish can live considerably longer. The long life of this makes this fish better suited for those who are willing to make a long-time commitment to their fish.
What do fish eat in aquariums?
In the aquarium, these fish will behave like when they are in the wild. They will attach themselves to walls and decorations to eat all the algae they can find. If, however, you feel that there are not enough algae in your fish tank to keep your fish fed, then this fish will be more than happy to eat things such as algae wafers.
What can you do with artificial caves?
Artificial caves make for great decoration in the tank and a place for growing algae for your fish. You can also construct your caves from rocks and driftwood. The important thing is to provide a place for your fish to swim and hide in.
What do fish use to get water to their gills?
When this fish is attached, it uses specialized orans called branchial apertures to help get water to their gills. The organs force water across the gills so that they can breathe while holding onto a surface. With their mouths free from needing to focus on breathing, this species is free to eat p all the algae it finds on the tank walls and decorations.
What is the primary source of food for Chinese algae eaters?
For the Chinese Algae Eater, their primary source of food and nutrition in the wild is algae. When in their native environment they will latch onto rocks and eat all the algae they find using their sucker mouths.
Where are Chinese algae eaters located?
The Chinese Algae Eater is located throughout Asia in various rivers. These waters are warm and have a lot of hiding places for the fish.
Overview
- Scientific name: Gyrinocheilus aymonieri Chinese algae eaters are well-known for their ability to consume large amounts of algae as juveniles, but many people do not realize that their dietary requirements change as they age. As adults, Chinese algae eaters prefer more protein in their diet. Native to the Chao Phraya basin and rivers throughout Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, they are so…
Typical Appearance and Behavior
- Chinese algae eaters appear as light brown with a solid or dotted black strip along their body or gold in color
- They are long, slender fish with a large suction cup style mouth they use to attach to the glass, rocks and décor
Habitat
- Habitat size
Keep in an appropriately sized aquarium, which can range from 10 gallons for juvenile Chinese algae eaters to a much larger aquarium for an adult. - Building your habitat
1. Water health - Provide proper filtration to ensure optimal water quality to help maintain health. Moderate to turbulent water circulation should be provided to mimic water currents and high oxygen levels found in a Chinese algae eater’s natural habitat. Stable water quality(pH, ammonia…
Feeding
- A well-balanced Chinese algae eater diet consists of: 1. Algae and sinking algae wafers 2. Supplement with raw zucchini or cucumbers as a treat once or twice a week; raw vegetables should be anchored near the bottom of the aquarium 3. Adults will benefit from sinking pellets, frozen and freeze-dried brine and mysis shrimp and bloodworms Things to r...
Chinese Algae Eater Care
- Water care: Maintaining great water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration is important to help keep your Chinese algae eater healthy
- Avoid overcrowded conditions; they are a major cause of stress and disease
Where to Buy
- Chinese algae eaters are available for purchase at your local Petco location;availability varies by location. Please call ahead to check availability.
Supplies
Tank Mates
- May be compatible with community fish such as: 1. Platys 2. Mollies 3. Swordtails 4. Gouramis 5. Angelfish 6. Barbs 7. Danios 8. Larger tetras 9. Rainbowfish Keep only one Chinese algae eater per tank
Health
- Signs of a healthy Chinese algae eater
1. Clear eyes 2. Eats vigorously 3. Attaches to the side of the aquarium or décor or moves along the bottom of the aquarium 4. Bright, even coloring 5. Free of parasites or disease - Red flags
1. Loss of color 2. Cloudy eyes or pop-eye 3. Labored breathing 4. Frayed fins or discolored fins 5. Weight loss 6. Bloating 7. Loss of appetite 8. Erratic swimming 9. Spots or fungus on body or mouth 10. Listlessness 11. Elevated scales
FAQs
- What do algae eaters eat?As juveniles, Chinese algae eaters will primarily eat algae. As they age, they will also crave protein-based foods such as sinking pellets, frozen or freeze-dried brine shr...
- How big do Chinese algae eaters get?Chinese algae eaters can reach an adult size of 11 inches.
- What do algae eaters eat?As juveniles, Chinese algae eaters will primarily eat algae. As they age, they will also crave protein-based foods such as sinking pellets, frozen or freeze-dried brine shr...
- How big do Chinese algae eaters get?Chinese algae eaters can reach an adult size of 11 inches.
- How many Chinese algae eaters per tank?Chinese algae eaters are semi-aggressive and will fight with one another; it is best to only have one per aquarium.
- How fast do Chinese algae eaters grow?The growth rate of the Chinese algae eater will vary by individual, depending on the amount of algae and supplemental nutrition being provided.
Appearance, Size, and Lifespan
Temperament and Behavior
Natural Habitat
Basic Tank Setup
Food and Diet
- As you’ve probably guessed, the main component of the Chinese algae eater’s diet is algae. However, the efficiency of this fish means that algae will quickly become in short supply. Combined with regular tank maintenance and water changes, there may not be enough naturally occurring food in the aquarium for your algae eater. Because of this, it’s r...
Summary of Chinese Algae Eaters
Species Summary
Appearance
Chinese Algae Eater Size
Chinese Algae Eater Care
Food & Diet Recommendations
- The interesting thing about Chinese Algae Eaters is that their diets tend to change as they get older. When they are young, these fish have no problem feeding off algae. Many owners don’t even feed them because they get ample nutrients from cleaning up the tank. Unfortunately, their appetite for algae wanes as they get bigger. Eventually, your fish...
Temperament & General Behavior
Tank Mates
Breeding
Making The Decision