Silver Flying Fox

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Crossocheilus reticulatus
• Common Name: Silver Flying Fox
• Adult Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years with proper care
• Habitat: Native to fast-flowing rivers and streams in Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand and Laos. Prefers clear, oxygen-rich waters with rocky or sandy substrates and plenty of submerged surfaces for grazing

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard)
• Temperament: Generally peaceful but may show territorial behavior with similar bottom dwellers. Best kept with non-aggressive community fish and given space to roam

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
• Diet: Consumes algae, biofilm, and detritus in the wild. In aquariums, thrives on algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach), and occasional protein like brine shrimp or bloodworms

Appearance

• Coloration: Silver-gray body with a reticulated (net-like) scale pattern, giving it a shiny, textured appearance
• Stripe: Often features a dark stripe running from the head through the eye and along the body to the tail
• Fins: Clear to slightly tinted; no prominent black markings on fins (unlike Flying Fox)

Distinctive Features

• Unique reticulated scale pattern gives a shimmering, textured look under light
• Peaceful algae grazer, though less aggressive than the Epalzeorhynchos species
• Streamlined body and sucker-like mouth adapted for foraging on flat surfaces
• Often confused with Flying Fox, but is generally more peaceful and slightly different in body pattern