True Siamese Algae Eater

Source: Aquarium Bred and Raised Estimated size at shipping: 1-1.75" Adult Size: around 4-5" Sold as: Unsexed Overview: In my experience, True Siamese Algae Eaters, often referred to as SAEs, are the best algae eating aquarium fish available. They do not stop eating algae as they grow like some plecos and Chinese algae eaters and flying foxes do and they don't get aggressive as adults like Chinese algae eaters do. These fish eat many kinds of algae and I've had them clear a 125 gallon planted aquarium choked with black beard, diatom, and string algae in a couple of weeks. Unless you have an army of them, SAEs are not great at cleaning glass... Bushynose Plecos and Nerite Snails are better at that. The SAEs specialize at getting algae out of the nooks and crannies in plants and hardscape. Setup Considerations: In our experience, these fish do well singly or in groups. They are curious and will often interact with other species. They appreciate, but do not demand, a good amount of water current. A fully grown SAE gets 4"-5", so a decent sized aquarium will be helpful if you wish to house a large group. Diet: Herbivore These are specialized algae and biofilm eaters. In the aquarium, they will accept a wide range of prepared foods, but it is important to ensure that the bulk of their diet is veggie based.

Overview: In my experience, True Siamese Algae Eaters, often referred to as SAEs, are the best algae eating aquarium fish available. They do not stop eating algae as they grow like some plecos and Chinese algae eaters and flying foxes do and they don't get aggressive as adults like Chinese algae eaters do. These fish eat many kinds of algae and I've had them clear a 125 gallon planted aquarium choked with black beard, diatom, and string algae in a couple of weeks. Unless you have an army of them, SAEs are not great at cleaning glass... Bushynose Plecos and Nerite Snails are better at that. The SAEs specialize at getting algae out of the nooks and crannies in plants and hardscape.

Setup Considerations: In our experience, these fish do well singly or in groups. They are curious and will often interact with other species. They appreciate, but do not demand, a good amount of water current. A fully grown SAE gets 4"-5", so a decent sized aquarium will be helpful if you wish to house a large group.