Chinese algae eater

Eats algae when young, then grows large and territorial. Adults latch onto flat-sided fish and rasp at their slime coat.

Chinese algae eater, side view

Care at a glance

Minimum tank55 gallons (208 L)
Temperature72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH6.0–8.0
How manyFine on its own
Adult size10 in (25.4 cm)
Where it livesThe bottom
TypeFish

Good tank mates

Possible with care

Do not mix with

Open any pairing to see the reason.

Tank sizes that fit