Crossocheilus Siamensis - Siamese Algae Eater (SAE)

$7.00

The Crossocheilus Siamensis - Siamese Algae Eater (4cm) is a high-utility biological asset, engineered for precision maintenance and structural reliability in technical freshwater systems. Characterized by its streamlined, aerodynamic profile and the iconic horizontal black stripe that extends through the caudal fin, this 4cm variant is the gold standard for algae-control husbandry. In the "Answering Machine" era of specialized freshwater aquascaping, the SAE is a premier choice for those looking to introduce a disciplined, high-efficiency worker into mature planted setups.

Unlike more passive algae eaters, C. siamensis is one of the few species capable of technical grazing on Black Brush Algae (BBA) and Staghorn Algae. This is a high-energy specimen that provides a constant display of alert, functional movement throughout the aquarium’s mid-to-lower architecture.

Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.

Visualization Note: Some product imagery utilizes generative AI to provide a high-fidelity representation of a mature specimen’s architectural profile. These are not photos of the specific individual you will receive, as biological variance is a standard in high-end husbandry.

Quick Specs

  • Care Level: Easy

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Variant Size: 4cm

  • Minimum Tank Size: 20 to 30 Gallons

  • Diet: Herbivore (Primary) / Omnivore

  • Reef Compatible: N/A (Freshwater)

  • Max Size: 6 Inches

  • Temperature: 75° to 79°F

  • dKH: 5 to 15

  • pH: 6.5 to 7.5

Aquarium Setup

The Siamese Algae Eater requires a stable freshwater environment with specific structural elements to support its utility:

  • Structural Layout: Significant use of driftwood, broad-leafed plants (such as Anubias or Amazon Swords), and smooth stones is recommended. These provide the necessary surfaces for grazing behavior.

  • Swimming Lanes: Maintain open horizontal space; as a streamlined, high-velocity swimmer, this species requires ample room for natural patrolling.

  • Oxygenation: High oxygen levels and moderate water flow are mandatory to simulate their natural riverine habitats and maintain metabolic efficiency.

Compatibility

This is a social, peaceful species. While they can be kept singly, they display superior social discipline when kept in small groups. They integrate perfectly with most community residents, including Tetras, Danios, and Rasboras. Avoid housing with hyper-territorial bottom-dwellers or large, aggressive cichlids that may compromise the SAE’s ability to forage freely.

Husbandry Notes

Success with Crossocheilus siamensis hinges on a varied nutritional protocol. While they are exceptional algae grazers, they should be supplemented with high-quality sinking wafers and vegetable-based matter to ensure peak nutritional health. As they mature, their diet may shift toward more general foraging; maintaining consistent grazing surfaces is key to their long-term utility. Regular 25% weekly water changes are the primary success factor for keeping these high-metabolism workers in peak condition.

Expert Shipping & Logistics (The BFA Protocol)

We utilize specialized logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. This protocol is strictly designed to minimize transport stress and ensure a technical transfer from our facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.

The Crossocheilus Siamensis - Siamese Algae Eater (4cm) is a high-utility biological asset, engineered for precision maintenance and structural reliability in technical freshwater systems. Characterized by its streamlined, aerodynamic profile and the iconic horizontal black stripe that extends through the caudal fin, this 4cm variant is the gold standard for algae-control husbandry. In the "Answering Machine" era of specialized freshwater aquascaping, the SAE is a premier choice for those looking to introduce a disciplined, high-efficiency worker into mature planted setups.

Unlike more passive algae eaters, C. siamensis is one of the few species capable of technical grazing on Black Brush Algae (BBA) and Staghorn Algae. This is a high-energy specimen that provides a constant display of alert, functional movement throughout the aquarium’s mid-to-lower architecture.

Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.

Visualization Note: Some product imagery utilizes generative AI to provide a high-fidelity representation of a mature specimen’s architectural profile. These are not photos of the specific individual you will receive, as biological variance is a standard in high-end husbandry.

Quick Specs

  • Care Level: Easy

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Variant Size: 4cm

  • Minimum Tank Size: 20 to 30 Gallons

  • Diet: Herbivore (Primary) / Omnivore

  • Reef Compatible: N/A (Freshwater)

  • Max Size: 6 Inches

  • Temperature: 75° to 79°F

  • dKH: 5 to 15

  • pH: 6.5 to 7.5

Aquarium Setup

The Siamese Algae Eater requires a stable freshwater environment with specific structural elements to support its utility:

  • Structural Layout: Significant use of driftwood, broad-leafed plants (such as Anubias or Amazon Swords), and smooth stones is recommended. These provide the necessary surfaces for grazing behavior.

  • Swimming Lanes: Maintain open horizontal space; as a streamlined, high-velocity swimmer, this species requires ample room for natural patrolling.

  • Oxygenation: High oxygen levels and moderate water flow are mandatory to simulate their natural riverine habitats and maintain metabolic efficiency.

Compatibility

This is a social, peaceful species. While they can be kept singly, they display superior social discipline when kept in small groups. They integrate perfectly with most community residents, including Tetras, Danios, and Rasboras. Avoid housing with hyper-territorial bottom-dwellers or large, aggressive cichlids that may compromise the SAE’s ability to forage freely.

Husbandry Notes

Success with Crossocheilus siamensis hinges on a varied nutritional protocol. While they are exceptional algae grazers, they should be supplemented with high-quality sinking wafers and vegetable-based matter to ensure peak nutritional health. As they mature, their diet may shift toward more general foraging; maintaining consistent grazing surfaces is key to their long-term utility. Regular 25% weekly water changes are the primary success factor for keeping these high-metabolism workers in peak condition.

Expert Shipping & Logistics (The BFA Protocol)

We utilize specialized logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. This protocol is strictly designed to minimize transport stress and ensure a technical transfer from our facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.