Golden Algae Easter

Golden Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)

Origin: Southeast Asia, primarily found in rivers and streams in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam
Size: 4.5 cm
Coloration: Vibrant golden-yellow body with a slightly iridescent sheen; some individuals may show faint patterns or stripes along their sides
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, particularly towards its own kind and other bottom dwellers
Compatibility: Best kept with fast-moving, similarly sized fish; avoid keeping with slow-moving or long-finned species
Tank Size: Minimum 80 liters
Water Parameters: 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, soft to moderately hard water
Diet: Herbivorous – Primarily feeds on algae; can be supplemented with algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and occasionally high-quality sinking pellets
Care Level: Intermediate
Breeding: Rarely bred in home aquariums; specific breeding behavior is not well-documented
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Health Considerations: Generally hardy, but requires good water quality and a well-maintained tank; can become territorial as they mature
Tank Setup: A well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, caves, and smooth rocks for grazing on algae; ensure strong water flow to mimic their natural river habitats
Fun Fact: The Golden Algae Eater is a color variant of the standard Algae Eater and is popular for its striking appearance and effectiveness in controlling algae in aquariums.