Chinese Algae Eater

Basics

Scientific Name: Gyrinocheilos aymonieri

Family:Gyrinocheilidae

Origin:Asia

Quick Facts

• Care Level:Easy
• Temperament:Semi-aggressive
• Lifespan:6-8 years or longer
• Water Conditions:74-79 F, KH 8-10, pH 6.8-7.4
• Maximum Size:10″-11″
• Diet:Herbivore
• Minimum Tank Size:30 gallons

Overview

The Chinese Algae Eater is a popular choice for many aquarists due to their appetite for algae and ability to control it within a tank, which gives them their common name. They have a slender body and a sucker mouth, and are golden brown in color with one black horizontal stripe running along their sides.

They will appreciate a medium to large tank that can accommodate their somewhat large adult size with plenty of hiding places in the form of driftwood, decor and plants. As adults, they may become aggressive and territorial, so tankmates should be chosen with this in mind.

Strict herbivores, they should be fed a diet consisting of algae flakes and wafers and other vegetable matter. Carnivorous foods should be avoided.

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