Flying Fox

Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus

A slender algae-grazing fish often confused with the Siamese algae eater, marked by a bold black stripe and flashy fins.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

73–81°F

pH

6–7.5

Hardness

5–12 dGH

Max size

5.5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Solitary (1+)

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-10 years

Breeding

Egg-layer

Origin

Southeast Asia

Useful for picking at algae and leftover food, but it grows territorial with age, especially toward its own kind and other bottom feeders. Keep it singly or in a group of five or more in a roomy tank to spread out aggression. Tell it apart from the Siamese algae eater by its colored fins and the gold band above the black stripe.