Sold widely as a small, peaceful algae-eating juvenile, the Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) undergoes a drastic behavioral and dietary shift as it matures. Growing up to 25cm (10 inches), adults stop eating algae, become highly territorial, and are notorious for attacking slow-moving, flat-sided fish (like Angelfish, Discus, and Goldfish) to feed on their nutrient-rich slime coat. Best kept in fast-flowing river setups with robust, fast-moving tank mates.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard Adult
The mature, standard-color form. Highly territorial towards its own kind and other bottom-dwellers. Requires a large tank and should absolutely not be housed with slow-moving or flat-bodied fish due to slime-coat feeding.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Wild Type CAE, Adult CAE
Juvenile (Grow-out)
The common retail size. At this stage, they are relatively peaceful and efficiently consume algae. WARNING: They grow very fast and will transition into aggressive, slime-coat-eating adults.
Differs in 6 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby CAE, Small Algae Eater
Golden / Albino (Adult)
A popular xanthic (gold/yellow) morph. While it looks different, it shares the exact same aggressive behavioral traits, large adult size, and slime-coat-eating tendencies as the wild-type adult.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Golden Algae Eater, Lemon Algae Eater, Albino CAE
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) Care Guide Summary
The Chinese Algae Eater (CAE), scientifically known as Gyrinocheilus aymonieri, belongs to the Other family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 25 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–8 and a general hardness of 5–15 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 3 varieties: Standard Adult, Juvenile (Grow-out), and Golden / Albino (Adult). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Chinese Algae Eater (CAE), a high water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels.
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) Compatibility Notes
Classified as aggressive, the Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Algae Eater (CAE)
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