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Family:
| Cyprinidae
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Origin:
| Southeast Asia, Thailand, Malayan peninsula.
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Length:
| 15 cm - 6"
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Min. length aquarium:
| 80 cm - 30"
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English name:
| True Siamese Algae Eater
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This is the True Siamese Algae Eater, Crossocheilus siamensis, to be distinguished from the Flying Fox, Epalzeorhynchus kalopterus; the "False Siamese Algae Eater, Garra taeniata; the Chinese Algae Eater, Gyrinocheilus aymonieri; and the related Crossocheilus oblongus; see below. It is sometimes incorrectly called the Siamese Flying Fox. Originally, it is from Southeast Asia, Thailand, and the Malayan peninsula. The fish is peaceful toward other species, but it sometimes fights with its own kind. It can be kept in a community tank. It likes fine gravel and thick, patchy vegetation. Keep in warm, soft, slightly-acid water, 5° dGH to 20° dGH and pH 6.5 to pH 8.0 can be tolerated. Requires well oxygenated water. The fins are transparent, unlike those of Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus. It has a single pair of barbels on the upper lip while E. kalopterus has two. The species, Crossocheilus siamensis, is considered the best algae eater in an aquarium. It was originally recognized as such by Dr. Baensch and popularized to hobbyists around the world. Despite its relatively plain appearance it can now be found in nearly every good pet store. The genus Crossocheilus differs from Epalzeorhynchos by rhinal lobes (nasal lobes). It is a herbivore, but it likes all types of live foods - even Planarian Worms, algae - including Thread Algae, lettuce, flakes. Does not eat plants. Can live 4 to 5 years. For an extensive discussion of the fish and problems associated with identifying and getting the TRUE Siamese Algae Eater, see: Algae Eating Cyprinids from Thailand and Neighboring Areas.
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