Chinese Algae Eater: Tank Size, Tank Mates and How Many to Keep

The Chinese algae eater is sold as a helpful algae cleaner. It grows large, loses interest in algae, and turns on its tankmates.

Adult size
9.8 in25 cm
Smallest tank
55 gallons208 liters
How many
One only
Temperature
73–81 °F23–27 °C
pH
6–8
Temperament
Aggressive
Swims
On the bottom
Heater needed
Yes

What size tank does a Chinese algae eater need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Gyrinocheilus aymonieri.

How many Chinese algae eaters in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if Chinese algae eaters are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Keep one Chinese algae eater per tank, whatever the size. Of the common sizes, these are big enough: 55 gallon, 75 gallon, 125 gallon.

Check Chinese algae eaters against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

  • Peaceful when small. Adults stop eating algae and attack other fish.
  • Keep one per tank. Two will fight over the floor.

Tank mates for Chinese algae eaters

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

  • Betta: Chinese algae eater is aggressive and much bigger. Betta would be bullied.
  • Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.

Questions and answers

What size tank does a Chinese algae eater need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many Chinese algae eaters should be kept together?

Just one. Chinese algae eater adults fight each other in a home tank.

Can Chinese algae eaters live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Chinese algae eater needs at least 55 gallons (208 liters), and grows to 10 in (25 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.

What temperature do Chinese algae eaters need?

73–81 °F (23–27 °C), with a pH of 6–8. In most homes that means a heater.

Can Chinese algae eaters live with a betta?

It is not a good match. Chinese algae eater is aggressive and much bigger. Betta would be bullied.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.