What size tank do Siamese algae eaters need?
At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 3. 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 in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Crossocheilus oblongus.
How many Siamese algae eaters in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if Siamese algae eaters are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
| Tank | How many Siamese algae eaters |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small |
| 10 gallon | Too small |
| 20 gallon long | Too small |
| 29 gallon | Too small |
| 40 gallon breeder | Too small |
| 55 gallon | up to 5 |
| 75 gallon | up to 7 |
| 125 gallon | up to 12 |
Check Siamese algae eaters against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- Keep at least 3. In smaller numbers they are stressed, or one gets picked on.
- This is a jumper. Use a lid with no gaps.
Tank mates for Siamese 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.
- Boeseman's rainbowfish
- Congo tetra
- Swordtail
- Pearl gourami
- Glass catfish
- Dwarf neon rainbowfish
- Rummy-nose tetra
- Lemon tetra
Poor matches
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as Siamese algae eater.
- Molly: They need different water: Siamese algae eater likes a pH of 6.5–7.8, molly likes 7.5–8.5.
Questions and answers
What size tank do Siamese algae eaters need?
At least 55 gallons (208 liters) for a group of 3. The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many Siamese algae eaters should be kept together?
At least 3. Siamese algae eaters are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.
Can Siamese algae eaters live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Siamese algae eater needs at least 55 gallons (208 liters), and grows to 6 in (15 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.
What temperature do Siamese algae eaters need?
75–81 °F (24–27 °C), with a pH of 6.5–7.8. In most homes that means a heater.
Can Siamese algae eaters live with a betta?
Usually, yes, in a tank of 55 gallons (208 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–81 °F (24–27 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.
More fish
- Rainbow shark
- Red-tailed black shark
- Bala shark
- Pea puffer
- African butterfly fish
- Bumblebee goby
- All 81 species
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.