About Chinese Algae Eater

WARNING: The Chinese Algae Eater is NOT recommended for community aquariums. Despite being sold as an algae eater, these fish become aggressive as they mature and develop a habit of attaching to slow-moving or flat-bodied fish to suck their slime coat, causing serious injury or death. Juveniles eat algae, but adults (which grow to 10+ inches) often stop eating algae entirely and become problematic. They are included here to warn aquarists against purchasing them. Siamese Algae Eaters are the better choice for algae control.

Care Guide

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Chinese Algae Eaters need species-only tanks or with robust, fast fish.

Essential Setup:

  • 30+ gallons minimum for juveniles
  • 55+ gallons for adults
  • Strong filtration
  • Rocks and driftwood for grazing

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C)
  • pH: 6.8-7.5
  • Water Hardness: Moderate (5-15 dGH)
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Juveniles eat algae, adults become problematic:

  • Algae (when young)
  • Algae wafers
  • Will eat fish slime as adults

WARNING - Behavior Issues

Why Not to Buy:

  • Juveniles sold: 2-3 inches, eat algae
  • Adult size: Grow to 9-11 inches
  • Stop eating algae: Adults often ignore algae
  • Aggressive behavior: Attack other fish
  • Sucking habit: Attach to flat fish (angelfish, discus, gouramis)
  • Cause injury: Remove slime coat, cause infection

Behavior & Compatibility

NOT suitable for community tanks:

  • Territorial: Defends territory aggressively
  • Parasitic behavior: Sucks on other fish
  • Target slow fish: Angelfish, discus, gouramis especially vulnerable
  • Size: Large and powerful as adults

Alternative Recommendation: Buy Siamese Algae Eaters instead.

Better Alternatives

Instead of Chinese Algae Eaters, consider:

  • Siamese Algae Eaters: Peaceful, eat algae, effective
  • Otocinclus: Small, peaceful, effective
  • Bristlenose Pleco: Peaceful, good algae eater
  • Amano Shrimp: Excellent algae control

If You Already Have One

  • Species only tank: Keep alone or with very robust fish
  • Provide plenty of algae: To reduce aggression
  • Watch for sucking behavior: Separate immediately if seen
  • Large tank: Minimum 55 gallons for adult

Compatible Tank Mates

🐠 None recommended