Overview
The Siamese algae eater is a slim, silvery fish with a bold black stripe running from its nose all the way to its tail. It comes from the fast-flowing streams and rivers of Southeast Asia, including Thailand (once called Siam, which is how it got its name). Fish keepers love it because it is one of the best natural cleaners you can add to a tank, happily grazing on algae all day long.
What makes this fish special is that it eats types of algae that many other cleanup fish will not touch, including the tough, hair-like black beard algae that can take over a tank. It is peaceful, active, and always on the move, darting around rocks and plants to nibble green growth. Because it is a strong swimmer that can grow to a decent size, it does best in a roomy tank with a secure lid, since it is a bit of a jumper.
| Care level | Easy |
| Adult size | 5-6 in (13-15 cm) |
| Lifespan | 8-10 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful and active |
| Min. tank | 30 gal (114 L) |
| Temperature | 75-79 F (24-26 C) |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Diet | Omnivore, mostly algae |
| Schooling | Optional, fine alone or in small groups |
The algae specialist
The Siamese algae eater will graze on tough algae that most other fish ignore, including stringy black beard algae. It is one of the few fish that helps keep this stubborn kind under control.
A stripe from nose to tail
A single bold black stripe runs the full length of its body. This helps tell the real Siamese algae eater apart from look-alike fish that do not eat nearly as much algae.
A tireless swimmer
This fish is fast and busy, zipping around the tank all day. It needs open swimming space and a secure lid, because a startled Siamese algae eater can jump right out of an open tank.
Give it a snack too
Even a great algae eater cannot live on algae alone. In a clean tank it should also get sinking pellets, algae wafers, and bits of vegetable to stay healthy and well fed.
Peaceful when young, bolder with age
Younger Siamese algae eaters are calm and social, but older ones can get a little pushy at feeding time. Plenty of space and hiding spots keeps the whole tank relaxed.
Fun facts
- It eats tough black beard algae that most fish refuse.
- A single black stripe runs from its nose to its tail.
- It comes from the streams of Thailand, once called Siam.
- It is a strong jumper, so its tank needs a lid.
- It still needs extra food when the tank runs low on algae.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Siamese algae eater really eat algae?
Yes, and it is one of the best at it. It even eats stubborn black beard algae that many other cleanup fish leave alone.
Do I still need to feed it?
Yes. Algae alone is not enough, especially in a clean tank. Give it sinking pellets, algae wafers, and a little vegetable too.
Does it need a lid on the tank?
Definitely. It is a strong swimmer and a jumper, so a secure lid keeps it safely inside the aquarium.
Is it peaceful with other fish?
Mostly yes, though older ones can get a bit bossy at feeding time. A roomy tank with hiding spots keeps everyone calm.
