. 🐟 Chinese Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)
Algae Control (Juvenile) • Active Grazer • Semi-Aggressive Adult
 
📋 The Chinese Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri) is a popular freshwater fish often sold for algae control in aquariums. Juveniles are efficient algae grazers, keeping glass, rocks, and decorations clean. As they mature, however, they often shift to a more omnivorous diet and can become territorial or semi-aggressive, particularly toward slower or similarly shaped fish.
They have a slender golden-brown body with a dark lateral stripe (sometimes marbled), and a specialized sucker-like mouth adapted for clinging to surfaces in fast-flowing streams. While hardy and long-lived, they require adequate swimming space and strong filtration, especially as they grow larger.
Because of their changing behavior, they are best kept with robust tankmates and in tanks with hiding spaces, ensuring they remain useful while avoiding aggression problems.
 
💡 Highlights
✨ Juvenile algae grazer – excellent tank cleaner early on
⚪ Slender golden-brown body with stripe – distinctive appearance
📏 Grows up to 28 cm – often outgrows small aquariums
✅ Hardy and long-lived – up to 10 years
🐠 Semi-aggressive adult behavior – needs careful tankmates