Siamese Algae Eaters

 

Freshwater fishes include Siamese algae eaters (SAEs), or Crossocheilus oblongus. They are part of the Cyprinidae Family. They are among the most efficient algae eaters. They are the most active fish in eating algae. They are constantly busy grazing algae on rocks, woods and glass surfaces, as well as filter pipes and other decorations. Because of their algal grazing habits, they can be called freshwater goats.

Appearance

Siamese Algae Eaters are known for their long, narrow cylindrical bodies. The upper side of the body is golden and has a paly brown tint. From the mouth to the tail, they have black stripes. These are covered with thick golden strips.

It is not easy to identify the gender of Siamese Algae eater. Although they are nearly identical, females tend to be larger than males. This is the only difference between males & females. At the age of three to four years, their gender can be determined. In the early stages of their lives, it is difficult to determine their gender.

Feeding habits and behaviour

Siamese Algae eaters are omnivores. They can accept pellet foods and flake foods in their aquariums. They prefer to have lots of plants in their aquariums, even though their primary diet should be vegetarian. They can also eat delicate plant leaves and mosses if they don't have food or algae. Provide them with healthy food, even if there is no algae. Because of their body, they can easily access most aquarium parts to search for algae.

They are social and peaceful creatures. They search for algae spots in groups and then eat together. They then sit down on the spot, and then they eat the algae. They usually stay close to the decorations' bottom. Their barbels may be damaged by sharp decorations and rocks.

Water Quality

Siamese algae eaters are found in fast-moving streams and rivers throughout South Asia. These rivers have high levels of oxygen and acidic water. These rivers are rich in rocks, gravels and logs from trees, which provides them with algae.

Tank setup

Siamese algae eaters can be kept in a 100-litre aquarium that has lots of plants and hiding spots. These hiding spots can be created by creating artificial caves. Substrates and soil should be smooth and fine. SAE installations should not be used for items or decorations that are sharp. They prefer moderate lighting. pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. Ideal temperatures are between 23 and 27 degrees Celsius. The water flow should be medium to high according to their natural habitat. Today, SAEs are sourced from fish farms. They can adapt to a wide range of water conditions. They love oxygenated and acidic water. It is possible to make water acidic by adding driftwoods to an aquarium. Water flow is also important in oxygenating and cleaning water.

They are calm by nature, so keep them away from aggressive or large-sized fishes. They are known for nicking the fins long-finned fishes like betta fish and gold fish. Be sure to keep this in mind when housing these fishes. Rainbow Sharks and Red Tail sharks, which are bottom dwellers, are terrestrial. It is not recommended to keep them with sharks. Cichlids are territorial fishes. They will harass anyone who enters their territory. Siamese Algae Eaters should not be kept with Cichlids. They should be kept with peaceful fishes only. Large-sized fish can cause them to become agitated and even die. Small, peaceful fishes such as tetras and rasboras make great tank mates for SAEs.

Siamese Algae Eaters:

It is easy to keep SAEs clean. They are simple to maintain and keep. They do not have any requirements. These are some important things to keep in mind when keeping SAEs:

1. You should have water that flows at a moderate to high rate. Keep your filter clean from time to time. They can be happy in many water conditions. They should be kept in a safe environment with no toxins. They can be easily infected by the parasite White Spot (Ichthyophthirius multiis).
2. Use smooth substrate to keep them clean. Cuts and scars can result from sharp substrates and decorative materials. These cuts and scars can lead to many kinds of infections.
3. Give them plenty of hiding spots. These hiding spots can be made from artificial caves or coconut shells.
4. They should not be kept with aggressive or territorial fishes.
5. In a properly-cycled aquarium, you can introduce SAEs. Before releasing SAEs, make sure to check the water parameters.

Happy Fishkeeping!

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