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Siamese Algae Eater

By The Aquarium Calculators Editorial Team ·

Crossocheilus oblongus

Complete Siamese Algae Eater care guide covering herbivore diet requirements, peaceful temperament, minimum 20 Gallons tank setup, and compatible freshwater tankmates. Difficulty: Easy.

Siamese Algae Eater

Quick Answer

Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is a captivating and highly sought-after freshwater species. It requires a minimum 20 Gallons aquarium with a pH of 6.5 - 7.5 and temperature range of 22-26°C. This herbivore occupies the bottom zone and makes an excellent addition to community setups.

Intro

Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is a captivating and highly sought-after freshwater species. Known for their peaceful nature and distinct appearance, they occupy the bottom levels of the aquarium and bring dynamic energy to any setup.

Setup

Siamese Algae Eater requires a stable, well-filtered aquarium of at least 20 gallons. They thrive best with moderate water movement and a reliable heater to maintain temperatures around 22-26°C. Ensure pH levels remain consistent between 6.5 - 7.5 to prevent stress and support long-term health.

Feeding

As a herbivore, the Siamese Algae Eater is not a picky eater. They should be fed a high-quality base of flakes, sinking pellets, or wafers. Periodic supplementation with frozen or live foods, such as bloodworms or brine shrimp, will boost their health and colors.

Compatibility

Siamese Algae Eater has a peaceful temperament. They are compatible with other fish of similar sizes and temperaments. Avoid placing them with aggressive species or tankmates they are listed as incompatible with, such as: None.

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Tank Position
Bottom
Water Temp
22-26°C
Adult Size
See profile
Water pH
6.5 - 7.5

Species Characteristics

Adult Size
Lifespan
Growth Rate
moderate
Tank Compatibility
Community compatible
Indoor Aquarium
Yes

Water Parameters

Water Temperature
Humidity
Water pH

Tank Lighting

Tank Lighting
Standard lighting
Light Hours
N/A
Intensity
moderate

Feeding & Diet

Diet Type
Diet: Herbivore
Feeding Schedule
N/A
Live Food Options
N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Siamese Algae Eaters should be kept together?
Keep a single specimen, or a group of 3 to 5 in a tank of at least 40 gallons (150 liters) with a footprint of 36x15 inches (90x38 cm). Siamese algae eaters (Crossocheilus oblongus) are peaceful shoalers but can become territorial as they age. Groups under 3 may exhibit minor chasing. Provide open swimming areas, driftwood, and dense plant borders. Tank length must exceed 30 inches (75 cm). Avoid with aggressive bottom feeders (red tail sharks, flying foxes) that resemble them.
What are the exact water parameters for Siamese Algae Eaters?
Target pH 6.5 - 7.5, General Hardness 5 - 12 dGH, Carbonate Hardness 4 - 10 dKH, Total Dissolved Solids 120 - 300 ppm, Electrical Conductivity 250 - 600 μS/cm, and temperature 72°F - 80°F (22°C - 27°C). They prefer stable parameters with moderate water flow (8x turnover). Maintain nitrates below 20 ppm with weekly 25% water changes. Use a canister filter with strong current. Provide smooth gravel or sand. Use a tight-fitting lid; they are jumpers. Hardness below 4 dGH causes clamped fins.
What is the dietary and medication protocol for Siamese Algae Eaters?
They are omnivores that consume algae (especially black beard algae), requiring 50% plant matter, 30% protein, 20% algae. Feed algae wafers, spirulina tabs, blanched zucchini, and sinking pellets daily. Supplement with frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp twice weekly. They stop eating algae if overfed protein. Medication alert: Tolerate copper (0.2 mg/L) but sensitive to formalin. Scaleless; use malachite green at half-dose (0.05 mg/L). Praziquantel is safe. Avoid salt (tolerance <3 ppt). Quarantine with methylene blue.
How to breed Siamese Algae Eaters in captivity?
Breeding is very rare in home aquariums (requires large tanks 100+ gallons and hormonal stimulation). Condition a group of 5-6 with high-protein foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp) for 4 weeks. Simulate rainy season: Lower temperature to 68°F (20°C), perform 50% water change with cool RO water over 6 hours, increase water flow. They are egg-scatterers over fine-leaf plants. Female releases 1,000-3,000 eggs. Remove parents after spawning. Eggs hatch in 24-36 hours at 75°F (24°C). Fry require green water for 5 days, then baby brine shrimp. Not recommended for hobbyists.