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A globally popular fish due to its amazing algae-eating capabilities, the Siamese algae eater is a must-have fish for planted aquariums. Siamese algae eaters are an essential clean-up crew member for well-planted tanks, as they ensure string and hair algae never get out of control. These fish are not exactly the most colourful fish and have earthy browns, silvers, and jet-black stripes from head to tail which gives them their characteristic look.
The Siamese algae eater however is still readily purchased despite its bland colour scheme as they make for a discrete addition to aquascaped and planted tanks where the scape is the general highlight. Siamese algae eaters aside from their algae-eating capabilities though are just interesting fish to keep, especially when they are in groups as they usually stick together in a shoal. These are fish that usually spend most of their time near the bottom of the aquarium or swiftly gliding along with the plants and hardscape.
They are also hardy and easy to care for tropical aquarium fish but do get fairly large maxing out at 14-15 cm which is why they are best for larger planted tanks. Siamese algae eaters are also perfect in a community aquarium setting and are fine with even the smallest of fish as long as they aren’t newborn fry or shrimp. Siamese algae eaters are not easy to breed often requiring specific environmental queues to trigger spawning behaviour, coupled with this finding males and females in near impossible as they do not have any clear distinguishing factors. Siamese algae eaters are naturally found in the waterways of Southeast Asia.
Tank Recommendations for your Siamese Algae Eaters
Siamese algae eaters max out at around the 15cm mark and get fairly round meaning they are not suitable for smaller tanks. The bare minimum would be an aquarium which is 75 liters and has a good footprint due to its fairly active bottom-dwelling nature. The substrate of the aquarium is not a concern for these fish however they will love a well-planted aquarium and lots of surface area to graze on. The only precaution which should be talked into consideration for Siamese algae eaters is they are avid jumpers so a good aquarium lid is a must. This species is most active during the day when the lights are on.
Suitable Tank Buddies
Siamese Algae Eaters are extremely peaceful fish with no fin nipping tendencies, they can be kept with a vast range of peaceful community fish.
Usually Compatible
Tetras, gouramis, corydoras, angelfish, cherry barbs, and common community fish species.
Sometime Compatible
dwarf cichlids such as rams and large peaceful cichlids such as Uaru or Severums which might outcompete for food.
Rarely Compatible
Shrimp and large aggressive species such as African cichlids, Oscars, and Jaguar cichlids.
Feeding your Siamese Algae Eaters
Though Siamese algae eaters are sold for their algae-eating behaviour this is not their only diet. Without added supplementation, in their diet, they will begin to starve which is why they should also be fed a varied diet of pellets, flakes, frozen and live foods. Because of their primarily bottom-dwelling mentality, slow sinking food is best fed to them as this also allows other water column tank mates to eat as well. Feeding should occur once a day and it is best to do so when the lights are on during the day.
Q: How much is postage cost?
A: All dry goods are $8.95 flat shipping, $11.95 for Plants express postage and live stock are $20 express postage flat. Handling time applies.
Q: Where do we ship ?
A: We ship Australia wide but Live stock are not shipped to WA,NT & Tasmania because of the state law.
Q: Where do we ship from ?
A: We ship from Sydney,
Q: When do we ship ?
A: All dry goods are shipped Monday - Friday. Live Goods are shipped Mon - Wed depending where you are.
Q: Can I Pick Up ?
A: We are not offering any pickup at this stage
A: All dry stock can be returned back. Live goods are not refundable. Shipping cost will be deducted upon return of the item and also customer is responsible to send the item back.
We do ship dry goods.
Step 1: Prepare the necessary materials
Clean bucket or container large enough
Airline tubing
Air pump (optional but recommended)
Adjustable valve or knot (to regulate the flow of water) or get a abquatics drip kit
Clean, dechlorinated water (ideally matching the temperature and pH of your tank)
Step 2: Set up the drip acclimation system
Fill a clean bucket or container with the clean, dechlorinated water.
Attach one end of the airline tubing to an air pump (if using) and place the other end inside the bucket. Make sure it reaches the bottom of the container.
Step 3: Start the drip
Open the bag containing the aquatic animals and carefully pour the entire contents into the bucket, including the water from the transport bag.
Start a siphon by sucking on the free end of the airline tubing or use a siphon starter. This will initiate a slow drip of water into the bucket.
Step 4: Adjust the drip rate
Use an adjustable valve or tie a knot in the airline tubing to regulate the drip rate. Aim for approximately 2-4 drips per second.
The slow drip helps gradually mix the water in the bucket with the water from the transport bag, preventing any sudden changes in water parameters.
Step 5: Monitor the process
Keep an eye on the acclimation process and periodically test the water parameters in the bucket using a test kit. This helps ensure a smooth transition.
Depending on the sensitivity of the animals and the water parameters involved, the acclimation process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours.
Step 6: Adjust water volume if needed
If the water volume in the bucket becomes too high, you can remove some water and continue the drip acclimation process with fresh, dechlorinated water. Be cautious not to remove too much water, as it can lead to sudden changes in water parameters.
Step 7: Transfer the animals to the tank
Once the acclimation process is complete, gently net the aquatic animals from the bucket and transfer them to the tank. Avoid adding the water from the acclimation container to the tank to prevent any potential contamination.
Step 8: Dispose of the acclimation water
After transferring the animals, discard the acclimation water from the bucket. Do not pour it directly into any drains or natural bodies of water.
By following these steps, you can safely and gradually acclimate your shrimp, snails, and fish to their new tank environment after transport. Remember, it's important to monitor the process closely and make adjustments as necessary to ensure a smooth transition for your aquatic pets.