Chinese Algae Eater

Description

Chinese Algae Eater

Hardy, active and an excellent algae grazer when young, the Chinese Algae Eater is a unique freshwater fish prized for its ability to clean surfaces while constantly exploring the aquarium. With its specialised sucker mouth and energetic personality, this fascinating species is best suited to larger aquariums with experienced fish keepers who understand its changing behaviour as it matures.

Quick Facts

  • Brand: Aquatic Solutions
  • Product type: Catfish
  • Size / Capacity: 7 cm
  • Suitable for: Species-appropriate, established aquariums

Is this for you?

✔️ Perfect if:

  • Your aquarium is fully cycled and stable.
  • Adult size, social needs and compatibility have been checked.
  • You can provide the correct water conditions, diet and habitat.
  • You can receive and acclimate live livestock promptly.

❌ Consider something else if:

  • The aquarium is new, uncycled or unstable.
  • Compatibility or long-term space has not been confirmed.
  • You cannot meet the species-specific husbandry requirements.

Why choose Chinese Algae Eater?

It provides a clearly identified livestock option that can be assessed against your aquarium.

Matching adult size, behaviour and water needs helps prevent avoidable stress.

A planned addition is easier to acclimate, feed and monitor.

It is preferable to a similar-looking species when its long-term needs better suit your setup.

Key Benefits

  • Planned selection – Supports matching livestock to a suitable aquarium.
  • Aquarium suitability – Can become a rewarding part of a properly planned community.
  • Clear checks – Encourages confirmation of size, water and compatibility.
  • Long-term care – Keeps husbandry ahead of impulse selection.
  • Specialist support – NTA can help clarify suitability before ordering.

Specifications

  • Capacity / Size: 7 cm
  • Shopify category: Live Animals

Specifications may vary by model or manufacturer revision. Please check the selected variant where applicable.

What's included?

  • The selected live livestock variant.
  • Protective packing appropriate to the available fulfilment method.
  • Care or acclimation guidance where supplied.
  • Only items explicitly stated in the listing are included.

Setup & Use

  1. Prepare and test the aquarium before arrival.
  2. Inspect the package and follow current NTA acclimation guidance.
  3. Introduce the livestock calmly with reduced lighting where appropriate.
  4. Observe behaviour and compatibility closely.
  5. Maintain stable water and feed an appropriate diet.

Maintenance

Regular inspection and appropriate care help keep this product or livestock in suitable condition.

  • Test water regularly.
  • Maintain stable, species-appropriate parameters.
  • Feed controlled portions of a suitable diet.
  • Monitor growth, behaviour and compatibility.

Pairs perfectly with

  • A reliable water test kit.
  • Species-appropriate food.
  • Water conditioner.
  • Suitable plants, caves or cover.
  • A quarantine or observation setup where appropriate.
NTA Insight:
Check the adult animal, not only the size offered today. Adult size, social needs and behaviour are often the deciding factors.

Before You Buy

Compatibility: Confirm the exact product, variant, livestock and system compatibility before ordering.

Sizing: Use verified dimensions, actual aquarium volume and the intended application rather than relying on appearance alone.

Installation: Check access, placement, connections and safe operating requirements before use.

Replacement parts: Availability varies by product and manufacturer; confirm the exact model or SKU when a replacement is essential.

FAQ

Do Chinese Algae Eaters always eat algae?

No. Juveniles are effective algae grazers, but adults naturally become more omnivorous and require a varied diet that includes prepared foods and protein.

How big do they grow?

They commonly reach 20–28 cm as adults, making them unsuitable for small aquariums.

Are they peaceful?

Young fish are generally peaceful, but adults can become territorial, particularly towards other bottom-dwelling fish and slow-moving species.

Can they live with Angelfish or Discus?

It is generally not recommended. Mature Chinese Algae Eaters have been known to attach themselves to the bodies of slow-moving fish, potentially causing stress or injury.

What should I feed them?

A varied diet of algae wafers, spirulina foods, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables and occasional frozen foods will keep them healthy as they mature.

How long do they live?

With excellent care, Chinese Algae Eaters commonly live between 8 and 10 years.

Are they suitable for beginners?

They can be, provided new aquarists understand their eventual adult size and changing behaviour. Planning for their long-term needs is essential.

What does Chinese Algae Eater do?

Chinese Algae Eater is intended for species-appropriate, established aquariums. Check the selected option and listing details against your needs.

What aquarium size is it suitable for?

Use any verified rating in the Specifications section as a starting point. If no rating is stated, contact NTA when tank size is the deciding factor.

Is this the right model for my aquarium?

Confirm purpose, physical fit, capacity and compatibility before ordering.

What's included in the box?

Only the selected product and components explicitly stated in the current listing are included.

Is it easy to install or use?

Ease depends on correct sizing and preparation. Follow the setup steps and current manufacturer directions.

Chinese Algae Eater

Product form

Out of stock,  

$15.00


All prices include GST
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    Description

    Chinese Algae Eater

    Hardy, active and an excellent algae grazer when young, the Chinese Algae Eater is a unique freshwater fish prized for its ability to clean surfaces while constantly exploring the aquarium. With its specialised sucker mouth and energetic personality, this fascinating species is best suited to larger aquariums with experienced fish keepers who understand its changing behaviour as it matures.

    Quick Facts

    • Brand: Aquatic Solutions
    • Product type: Catfish
    • Size / Capacity: 7 cm
    • Suitable for: Species-appropriate, established aquariums

    Is this for you?

    ✔️ Perfect if:

    • Your aquarium is fully cycled and stable.
    • Adult size, social needs and compatibility have been checked.
    • You can provide the correct water conditions, diet and habitat.
    • You can receive and acclimate live livestock promptly.

    ❌ Consider something else if:

    • The aquarium is new, uncycled or unstable.
    • Compatibility or long-term space has not been confirmed.
    • You cannot meet the species-specific husbandry requirements.

    Why choose Chinese Algae Eater?

    It provides a clearly identified livestock option that can be assessed against your aquarium.

    Matching adult size, behaviour and water needs helps prevent avoidable stress.

    A planned addition is easier to acclimate, feed and monitor.

    It is preferable to a similar-looking species when its long-term needs better suit your setup.

    Key Benefits

    • Planned selection – Supports matching livestock to a suitable aquarium.
    • Aquarium suitability – Can become a rewarding part of a properly planned community.
    • Clear checks – Encourages confirmation of size, water and compatibility.
    • Long-term care – Keeps husbandry ahead of impulse selection.
    • Specialist support – NTA can help clarify suitability before ordering.

    Specifications

    • Capacity / Size: 7 cm
    • Shopify category: Live Animals

    Specifications may vary by model or manufacturer revision. Please check the selected variant where applicable.

    What's included?

    • The selected live livestock variant.
    • Protective packing appropriate to the available fulfilment method.
    • Care or acclimation guidance where supplied.
    • Only items explicitly stated in the listing are included.

    Setup & Use

    1. Prepare and test the aquarium before arrival.
    2. Inspect the package and follow current NTA acclimation guidance.
    3. Introduce the livestock calmly with reduced lighting where appropriate.
    4. Observe behaviour and compatibility closely.
    5. Maintain stable water and feed an appropriate diet.

    Maintenance

    Regular inspection and appropriate care help keep this product or livestock in suitable condition.

    • Test water regularly.
    • Maintain stable, species-appropriate parameters.
    • Feed controlled portions of a suitable diet.
    • Monitor growth, behaviour and compatibility.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • A reliable water test kit.
    • Species-appropriate food.
    • Water conditioner.
    • Suitable plants, caves or cover.
    • A quarantine or observation setup where appropriate.
    NTA Insight:
    Check the adult animal, not only the size offered today. Adult size, social needs and behaviour are often the deciding factors.

    Before You Buy

    Compatibility: Confirm the exact product, variant, livestock and system compatibility before ordering.

    Sizing: Use verified dimensions, actual aquarium volume and the intended application rather than relying on appearance alone.

    Installation: Check access, placement, connections and safe operating requirements before use.

    Replacement parts: Availability varies by product and manufacturer; confirm the exact model or SKU when a replacement is essential.

    FAQ

    Do Chinese Algae Eaters always eat algae?

    No. Juveniles are effective algae grazers, but adults naturally become more omnivorous and require a varied diet that includes prepared foods and protein.

    How big do they grow?

    They commonly reach 20–28 cm as adults, making them unsuitable for small aquariums.

    Are they peaceful?

    Young fish are generally peaceful, but adults can become territorial, particularly towards other bottom-dwelling fish and slow-moving species.

    Can they live with Angelfish or Discus?

    It is generally not recommended. Mature Chinese Algae Eaters have been known to attach themselves to the bodies of slow-moving fish, potentially causing stress or injury.

    What should I feed them?

    A varied diet of algae wafers, spirulina foods, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables and occasional frozen foods will keep them healthy as they mature.

    How long do they live?

    With excellent care, Chinese Algae Eaters commonly live between 8 and 10 years.

    Are they suitable for beginners?

    They can be, provided new aquarists understand their eventual adult size and changing behaviour. Planning for their long-term needs is essential.

    What does Chinese Algae Eater do?

    Chinese Algae Eater is intended for species-appropriate, established aquariums. Check the selected option and listing details against your needs.

    What aquarium size is it suitable for?

    Use any verified rating in the Specifications section as a starting point. If no rating is stated, contact NTA when tank size is the deciding factor.

    Is this the right model for my aquarium?

    Confirm purpose, physical fit, capacity and compatibility before ordering.

    What's included in the box?

    Only the selected product and components explicitly stated in the current listing are included.

    Is it easy to install or use?

    Ease depends on correct sizing and preparation. Follow the setup steps and current manufacturer directions.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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