The Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is a highly valued freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby, primarily due to its remarkable efficiency in controlling algae growth. Native to river basins in Southeast Asia, including the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers, this species thrives in fast-flowing streams and rivers with abundant vegetation. The Siamese Algae Eater is recognized for its elongated body, silver coloration with a distinctive black horizontal stripe running from the tip of the mouth to the tail, and its peaceful temperament.

One of the key features of the Siamese Algae Eater is its diet, as it is one of the few aquarium fish that actively consumes various types of algae, including the often problematic black beard algae. This makes it an invaluable addition to planted and community aquariums, where it helps maintain clean leaves and glass by grazing on algae without harming the plants themselves.

Creating an optimal environment for Crossocheilus oblongus involves replicating the conditions of their natural habitat as closely as possible. This includes a well-planted aquarium with plenty of open swimming spaces to mimic the flowing waters of their native environment. While they are adaptable to a range of water conditions, they do best in tanks with stable water parameters and a moderate to strong current to simulate river flow, enhancing their overall well-being.

The Siamese Algae Eater is an omnivorous species, with a diet in the wild consisting of algae, phytoplankton, and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, their algae-eating habits can be supplemented with high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, and occasional offerings of live or frozen foods such as daphnia or bloodworms to ensure a balanced diet.

One of the challenges in keeping Siamese Algae Eaters is their social behavior. They can be kept singly or in groups, but when housed in groups, adequate space is necessary to prevent territorial disputes, especially in smaller tanks. Their peaceful nature generally makes them excellent candidates for community tanks, where they can coexist with a wide variety of other peaceful fish species.

Breeding Siamese Algae Eaters in captivity is considered difficult, with few successful reports. They require specific conditions for spawning, which are hard to replicate in home aquariums. Consequently, most Siamese Algae Eaters available in the trade are wild-caught or farm-raised under conditions that mimic their natural breeding environments.

In summary, the Siamese Algae Eater is a beneficial and attractive addition to both planted and community aquariums. Its algae-eating habits, peaceful demeanor, and adaptability to various water conditions make it a popular choice among aquarists looking to naturally control algae growth while adding a dynamic element to their aquatic ecosystem. Proper care, including a balanced diet and adequate space, ensures that the Siamese Algae Eater thrives, contributing to the health and beauty of the aquarium.