Siamese Algae Eater

Crossocheilus oblongus

Also known as: SAE

Formerly: Crossocheilus siamensis

One of the few fish that eats black beard algae — but it grows and gets more boisterous.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

75–82°F

pH

6.5–7.8

Hardness

5–18 dGH

Max size

6 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temperament

Peaceful

Social

Groups (4+)

Swim level

All

Diet

Herbivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-10 years

Breeding

Egg-scatterer

Suitability

Common

Origin

Southeast Asia

True SAEs are among the only fish that reliably eat black beard algae when young, though they slow down on algae as they age and grow. Beware of misnamed look-alikes (flying fox, Chinese algae eater).