Algae eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)

Family: Gyrinocheilidae

A semi-aggressive algivore gyrinocheilidae from the Mekong basin of Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos and Cambodia) — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 25–28 °C
pH: 6–8
GH hardness: 5–19 dGH
Adult length: 19.6–28 cm
Minimum tank: 280 L
Water layer: Bottom; rests and forages low
Difficulty: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Origin: 东南亚湄公河流域（泰国、老挝、柬埔寨）

Species overview

Gyrinocheilus aymonieri is a Gyrinocheilidae. In the aquarium it stays semi-aggressive. Plan on 19.6–28 cm of adult fish at 25–28 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Amur False Gudgeon, Striped Bitterling.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂: Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Solitary, pairs or small groups
Diet: Algivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method: Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Algae eater easy to keep?

Difficulty: easy. Semi-aggressive. Solitary, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Algae eater need?

Aim for 25–28 °C. Heater required for stable tropical warmth; 25–28 °C recorded range.

How big does Algae eater get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 19.6–28 cm; it is bottom; rests and forages low. Plan for at least 280 litres.

What does Algae eater eat?

Algivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Algae eater live with other fish?

Semi-aggressive; solitary, pairs or small groups. Good company: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Algae eater come from?

Comes from 东南亚湄公河流域（泰国、老挝、柬埔寨）: clear streams, rivers and still waters. Expect moderate flow and average oxygen needs.

How does Algae eater breed?

Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.