Chinese Algae Eater - Gyrincocheilos aymonieri
The Chinese Algae Eater is one of the most commonly seen "algae eaters" in the aquarium hobby. The body is brown on top and white on the bottom with a broken black band that runs horizontally down the flanks of the fish.
Despite the name, however, these fish are not true algae eaters and require a diet of both meaty and vegetable foods. The sucker-like mouth is actually an adaptation for maintaining a grip on rocks in the fast flowing waters from which it originated. They also use this mouth to rasp algae from the surface of rocks, glass, and plants. They will also scavenge extra food from the bottom of the tank.
As Chinese Algae Eaters get older they favor a more carnivorous diet and can become more aggressive. They can especially be a problem with long finned or delicate fish.
| Specifications | |
| MPN | 213520 |
| Manufacturer | That Fish Place |
| Common Name | Chinese Algae Eater |
| Scientific Name | Gyrincocheilos aymonieri |
| Origin | Asia |
| Max Size (in inches) | 11 |
| Community Safe | Yes |
| pH Range | 6.5-7.5 |
| Diet | Omnivore (equal plants and meat) |
| Min Tank Size (in gallons) | 55 |
| Temperature Range | 75-82 |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Internal Id | 20160 |
| State Restrictions |
| Alaska |
| Armed Forces Americas |
| Armed Forces Europe |
| Armed Forces Pacific |
| California |
| Hawaii |
| Puerto Rico |
Ratings & Reviews
1 review
Alagae eaters
by Hpmauldin@me.com
They are good alagae eaters and any other food. They are also good for a community fish tanks with corydoras.