Siamese algae-eater facts for kids
Quick facts for kids True Siamese algae-eater |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Synonyms | |
|
The Siamese algae-eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is a type of freshwater fish. It belongs to the carp family, called Cyprinidae. This fish lives near the bottom of rivers. You can find it in Southeast Asia. This includes places like the Chao Phraya and Mekong rivers. It also lives in the Malay Peninsula. Its home is in streams and rivers. During the rainy season, it can also live in flooded forests.
This fish is sometimes confused with others. It is different from the flying fox or the false siamensis. The Siamese algae-eater does not have the same black bands as the flying fox.
Contents
What is a Siamese Algae-Eater?
The Siamese algae-eater has a black stripe. This stripe goes from its nose to the end of its tail. The stripe can quickly get lighter. This helps the fish hide in its surroundings. You might see this happen when they are fighting or stressed.
These fish can grow up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) long. They can reach this size in about two years. They can live for more than 10 years. This happens if they are kept in good conditions. People like them for aquariums. They are known to eat red algae. This includes algae called 'black brush' or 'beard' algae.
Meet Their Relatives
A close relative is the red algae-eater (Crossocheilus langei). This fish is often sold as a Siamese algae-eater. It has a bright brownish body. It also has a clear brown-black stripe. This stripe goes from its nose to its tail. This fish can grow up to 16 centimeters (about 6.3 inches). It has small whiskers near its mouth.
Other similar fish are also sold as Siamese algae-eaters. One is Crossocheilus atrilimes. This fish prefers Java moss over red algae. There is also another type of Crossocheilus that has not been fully named yet.
Caring for Siamese Algae-Eaters
_searching_for_algae.jpg)
The red algae-eater (Crossocheilus langei) is very common in pet stores. It is a popular fish for cleaning algae in tanks. These fish are active and swim fast. They will swim together if kept in a group. However, some might be a bit aggressive to their own kind.
Generally, the red algae-eater can live in most community tanks. They are usually less aggressive than other similar fish. Examples include the Chinese algae-eater. They are also calmer than the red-tailed black shark or the rainbow shark.
Tank Setup Tips
These fish like water temperatures from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius (75 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit). They prefer a pH level between 6.5 and 8.0. The water should have a hardness of 5 to 20 dH.
Many people put red algae-eaters in tanks with lots of plants. They also use strong lights. This helps prevent algae from growing too much. Unlike other algae eater fish, the red algae-eater is good at eating red algae. This includes a type called Audouinella.
The tank lid should be closed tightly. This is important because these fish can jump out. They cannot stay in the middle of the water. They like to rest on driftwood, rocks, or strong plants.
Living with Other Fish
Siamese algae-eaters often swim together in groups. But they are also fine living alone. If you keep two together, they might create their own space as they get older. They can live a long time. Some reports say they can live up to ten years.
