Data sheet brush algae eater
German name:
Brush Algae Eater
Scientific name:
Crossocheilus reticulatus
Origin:
South East Asia
Size:
Up to 15-17cm
Aquarium
Length:
Length 150 cm+ / width approx. 50 cm+ / content at least 400 / 450 liters
water values
Temperature:
23°C to 28°C
GH:9-20
soft to medium-hard (up to 5-15° dH)
pH:
5-8, slightly acidic
CH:
5° dH
Behave
Area:
at medium aquarium height, hidden areas such as roots, stones, aquatic plants
Lining:
Behave:
Schooling fish, sociable with all other peaceful fish
Number:
small groups of at least 7 animals
Difficulty level:
Easy, beginner friendly H.rolof, puzzle barb, marked as public domain, details on Wikimedia Commons
name and typing
The brush algae eaters are very popular with aquarium owners, especially because of their strong cleaning power as algae eaters. However, with a length of up to 18 cm, the group fish are only suitable for medium-sized to large aquariums. There they can permanently eliminate a heavy infestation of brush algae within a few days. So he got his name from his favorite dish. These cleaning talents can also be found under the names net algae eater, tail spot algae eater or puzzle barb.
However, other typical aquarium algae are also reliably disposed of by them. They have a small, torpedo-shaped body with gray-brown scales, and slightly translucent to yellow fins. The name Netzalgenfresser is due to the typical and easily recognizable, net-like pattern on the scales. A very distinctive feature is often a black square spot on the base of the tail.
habitat and conditions
The natural habitat of the brush algae eater is found in cool running waters, especially in south-east Asia, especially in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and southern China.
It therefore prefers a gentle current in the aquarium. It only tolerates heat in moderation, unheated aquariums are more in line with its natural habitat. Most of the specimens available for sale in Germany today come from wild capture or commercial offspring.
Breeding in domestic aquariums is not possible. Under the right conditions, brush algae eaters can live up to six years.
They love to hide in dense plants, roots or rock formations and also need a lot of space because of their group behavior. 150cm aquarium edge length is a minimum for an average group size. After all, many specimens grow up to 18 cm and need a certain volume to be able to swim freely.
gender detection
The sex of the brush algae eaters is extremely difficult to determine from the outside. Both males and females have no prominent significant features to distinguish them.
Statistically, adult females are slightly heavier than males, but this cannot be seen with the naked eye and without a measuring tool. In addition, this is not a reliable indication, since growth is also very relative and dependent on living conditions.
socialization
Brush algae eaters are extremely sociable fish. They socialize very well with any peaceful fish, crab and snail. Shrimp species also have nothing to fear, since the brush algae eater is an exclusive vegetarian. Only among themselves do occasional ranking fights take place.
However, this is to be understood at most as bickering. These industrious algae eaters do not actually show aggressive behavior. If there is enough space and the living conditions are right, they are extremely lively. However, if there are too few conspecifics, the fish become stressed and can quickly become ill. Therefore, a minimum group size of 7 fish is recommended, better more.