Fin's Fish Guide
The Siamese algae eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Asia: Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore and others
Description
The Siamese algae eater is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from clear, flowing rivers and forest streams of Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a slender, silver-brown body with a dark longitudinal stripe from snout to tail and an inferior mouth with horny lips with which it rasps algae from stones and wood. As a bottom-oriented grazer it eats aufwuchs, filamentous algae and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans and is prized as an aquarium algae-eater.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Siamese algae eater?
The Siamese algae eater has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Siamese algae eater live?
The Siamese algae eater lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore and others
How big does the Siamese algae eater get?
The Siamese algae eater grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Siamese algae eater dangerous to humans?
No, the Siamese 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 Siamese algae eater edible?
Yes, the Siamese algae eater is commonly eaten.
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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 Siamese algae eater?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Siamese algae eater is one of 12,519 species in the app.