Can False Siamese Algae Eater (Stonelapping Minnow) and Finger Fish Live Together?

Both False Siamese Algae Eater (Stonelapping Minnow) and Finger Fish are moderately assertive species with an aggression score of 5/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

In terms of spatial distribution, False Siamese Algae Eater (Stonelapping Minnow) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Finger Fish occupies the Middle (Open Water) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: False Siamese Algae Eater (Stonelapping Minnow) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.5 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 12–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Crucially, these species require different water types — one needs freshwater while the other requires brackish conditions. This is a hard barrier to keeping them together.

To house False Siamese Algae Eater (Stonelapping Minnow) and Finger Fish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 470 litres with a minimum length of 150 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

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: Established Algae (Otocinclus), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), 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.

False Siamese Algae Eater (Stonelapping Minnow) and Finger Fish are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.