Can Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish Live Together?
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish are not recommended as tank mates due to slime coat eaters target slow-moving fish, causing severe stress and health issues.. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Behaviour & Temperament
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Striped Raphael Catfish is peaceful (2/10). This notable difference means Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) may occasionally assert dominance over Striped Raphael Catfish.
Large aggression gap (6 points) between Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish increases stress risk for the more peaceful fish.
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.
There is a critical concern: the Slime Coat Eater (Attacks Flat Fish) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed) trait of the other — slime coat eaters target slow-moving fish, causing severe stress and health issues..
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Aggressive fish may bully and stress shy, slow-moving species. Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.
Worth noting: Striped Raphael Catfish is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.
Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.
Tank Setup
To house Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 240 litres with a minimum length of 120 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.
Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.
Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with high (river/stream) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Find the right tank equipment
Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish live together?▾
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish need?▾
A minimum of 240 litres (tank length at least 120 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.
What water temperature is best for Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish together?▾
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) or Striped Raphael Catfish aggressive?▾
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) is semi-aggressive (8/10) and Striped Raphael Catfish is peaceful (2/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.
What pH do Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) and Striped Raphael Catfish need?▾
Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
How do I manage Chinese Algae Eater (CAE)'s territorial behaviour?▾
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.
Does Striped Raphael Catfish being nocturnal affect compatibility?▾
Striped Raphael Catfish is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Striped Raphael Catfish during evening hours.
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