Siamese Algae Eater

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Crossocheilus oblongus
• Common Name: Siamese Algae Eater (SAE)
• Adult Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years with proper care
• Habitat: Native to streams and rivers in Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand and the Malay Peninsula. Prefers well-oxygenated waters with moderate flow and abundant rocks or submerged wood

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters)
• Ideal Temperature: 75–79°F (24–26°C)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard)
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; does well in community tanks. Can become territorial with age or when kept singly—best kept in groups of 3 or more if tank size allows

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
• Diet: Primarily algae in the wild. In aquariums, it eats soft algae, biofilm, sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and occasional live or frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

Appearance

• Coloration: Slender, light brown to grayish body with a bold, continuous black horizontal stripe running from nose to tail
• Fins: Clear (no black markings on fins—helps distinguish it from similar species)
• Body Shape: Streamlined, torpedo-shaped with a downturned mouth adapted for grazing

Distinctive Features

• True Siamese Algae Eater is best known for being one of the few fish that consumes black beard algae (BBA)
• No black markings on fins, unlike Flying Fox or False SAE
• Constant grazer, excellent for algae control in community tanks
• Very active swimmer, prefers planted tanks with hiding spaces and smooth substrate