Chinese Algae Eater

Looks how to spot one

Sucker-mouthed scaled fish

An elongated fish with a downward-facing suction-cup mouth for clinging to rocks and glass. The natural colour is pale grey to olive with a darker band of blotches along the side. It has no barbels, and small openings above the gills let it breathe while its mouth stays attached.132

Personality what they are like

Easy-going as a youngster but increasingly territorial as it grows, especially towards other bottom dwellers and similar-shaped fish. Best kept alone or in a group large enough to spread out any squabbles, with robust tankmates.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Spends much of its time stuck to flat surfaces grazing; likes flowing water and lots of surfaces to explore.31

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Keep water clean and well-oxygenated with good flow. Water: about 22-26 C (tolerates roughly 16-32 C), pH 6.0-8.0, hardness about 2-20 dGH.12

Home where they are happiest

Adults need a tank of at least about 150 x 45 cm base (around 300 litres) with rocks, smooth stones, driftwood and strong water movement.1

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Mainly grazes algae and biofilm. Supplement with quality dried foods, sinking pellets or gel foods, fresh vegetables and small live or frozen foods such as bloodworm, Daphnia and brine shrimp.12

Company who they like around

Either a single fish or a group of six or more so that a stable pecking order forms.1

The story where it all began

First described in 1883 by Tirant as Psilorhynchus aymonieri, it was named after French explorer and linguist Etienne Aymonier. In its home region it is also caught as food, and it became widespread in the aquarium hobby as an algae grazer.32

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Least Concern (assessed 2011).2