Fin's Fish Guide
The Cobitis algae eater (Crossocheilus cobitis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Asia: Brunei Darsm, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Viet Nam and others
Description
The cobitis algae eater is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from clear, flowing rivers of Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a dark longitudinal stripe and an inferior mouth with horny lips with which it rasps algae from stones. As a bottom-oriented grazer it lives in schools and eats aufwuchs, algae and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans and its relatives are popular aquarium algae-eaters.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cobitis algae eater?
The Cobitis algae eater has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Cobitis algae eater live?
The Cobitis algae eater lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Brunei Darsm, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Viet Nam and others
How big does the Cobitis algae eater get?
The Cobitis algae eater grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Cobitis algae eater dangerous to humans?
No, the Cobitis algae eater is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Cobitis algae eater edible?
The Cobitis algae eater is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Crossocheilus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Cobitis algae eater?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cobitis algae eater is one of 12,519 species in the app.