Siamese Algae Eater – Crossocheilus oblongus

Description

The Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus siamensis) is one of the most effective and popular algae-eating fish available for freshwater aquariums. Unlike many other algae eaters, the true Siamese Algae Eater is one of the only fish known to actively devour Black Beard Algae (BBA)—one of the most stubborn and frustrating algae types in the aquarium hobby. They also readily consume hair algae, filamentous algae, soft green algae, and biofilm, making them an invaluable addition to planted aquariums and community tanks.

Peaceful, active, and constantly on the move, Siamese Algae Eaters spend their day grazing on driftwood, rocks, decorations, and plant leaves, helping keep your aquarium naturally clean. Their streamlined body and bold black lateral stripe make them attractive in their own right, while their hardworking nature earns them a permanent place in many freshwater aquariums.

These fish thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of swimming space, good water movement, and a varied diet. While they are exceptional algae grazers, they should not rely solely on algae for nutrition. Supplement their diet with high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, fresh vegetables, and frozen foods to keep them healthy as they mature.

Siamese Algae Eaters are excellent community fish and get along well with tetras, rasboras, rainbowfish, Corydoras, gouramis, peaceful cichlids, and many other freshwater species. They can also be safely kept in planted aquariums, where they help maintain a clean, natural-looking aquascape without damaging healthy plants.

If you’re struggling with Black Beard Algae or persistent hair algae, few aquarium fish can match the effectiveness of a true Siamese Algae Eater. Combined with proper aquarium maintenance, they are one of the best natural algae-control solutions available for freshwater hobbyists.

Siamese Algae Eater Care

• Scientific Name: Crossocheilus siamensis
• Common Name: Siamese Algae Eater
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Adult Size: 5–6 inches
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Diet: Omnivore
• Water Temperature: 75–79°F
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Compatibility: Excellent with peaceful community fish and planted aquariums
• Origin: Southeast Asia

At PicKFish Pets, every Siamese Algae Eater is quarantined and carefully observed before being offered for sale. We take pride in sourcing true Siamese Algae Eaters (Crossocheilus siamensis), helping you avoid look-alike species that are often mislabeled and may not provide the same algae-eating benefits.