It is very much dependant on what fish you keep, the size of your tank, and the type of algae you are looking to eliminate. Though, 11 to 13 inches is the average for fish in captivity. At the very least, Rabbit Snails need a 30-gallon tank. Although there are several varieties of these little guys, most likely your fish store will only be carrying the spotted type. My personal favorites are the Scarlet Hermit Crab and the Emerald Crab. Though, the low biomass these critters produce makes it nearly impossible to overcrowd a tank. If using a brush or other tools, you will spend a lot of time on it, because it’s very difficult to remove, especially from glass. Rosy Barbs and American Flag Fish are a couple of the showy tropical algae eaters. They get along well with other non-aggressive fish species, as they’ll spend most of their time preventing algae from taking over the tank. Additionally, some algae eaters will eat multiple types of algae but are not necessarily the best algae eater for one particular strain. Here are 8 popular choices, with their pros and cons described. Nerite snails consume spot algae, which few other types of algae eaters eat. While they may not be as committed, or as effective as the other fish on this list, it’s worth knowing that Mollies, especially Black Mollies will eat their fair share of algae. The snails can survive on algae alone, though you might want to introduce an algae wafer if you don’t think your snail is getting enough food. Do you think common plecos will ever “not be a thing” in the aquarium industry? These algae-eating fish are very peaceful. A slightly larger tank of 25 to 30 gallons is recommended. There’s two problems you’ll face when searching for a group of SAEs for your tank. They prefer to be kept in higher numbers, so we recommend at least 3 per tank. Overall, the Mystery Apple Snail is a great addition to any tank, if you can get your hands on them. They need plenty of good hiding spaces in their tank to feel safe. Mystery Apple Snails will consume most types of algae, but you most commonly find them eating plant algae, substrate algae and aquarium glass algae. These tiny shrimp are a valuable addition to a freshwater ecosystem and will spend their days eating moss and as much algae as they can stomach. Type Of Algae Eaters: Pitbull Pleco Fish – Many aquarists because of the fact tag as LDA 25 the bass that it is become very hard to classify catfish when it comes to species being that they are obtainable in large numbers. Pick one based on the size of your tank and the type of fish your are keeping. Unlike other snails, Ramshorns typically don’t eat plants when they are well fed. Acidic water will dissolve the shells of all snails, so if you are thinking about keeping them, you should make sure your water is at least a 7 on the pH scale. At the very least, they need a 100-gallon tank. Also, they do require a varied diet to thrive, but they are voracious eaters, and they will eat any leftovers. C.langei, the Red Siamese Algae Eater, are friendly community fish and excellent consumers of algae. If you are interested in keeping Amano Shrimp, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Give CAE a pass unless you know what you’re going in for, and be extremely careful if you choose to add a Flying Fox to your tank. This helps us stay afloat and producing new content. There are many species of loaches; the clown loach is a common fish that is best kept in small groups. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. They like consistency, so heavy water changes can really affect them. The Flying Fox can be hard to tell apart from the CAE, and other species, but it’s one of the best algae eaters around. The best algae eaters for green dust algae are the Otocinclus catfish, Nerite snails, and Bristlenose, Bulldog and Rubber Nose Plecos. It is especially common with aquariums that don’t have much light. These tiny little snails have a short lifespan. Growing to around 2 inches in length, these relentless feasters are perfect for tanks of all sizes, and they tend to live harmoniously with other species. Unlike the Mystery Apple Snails, the Malaysian Trumpets will not eat your plants, so if your aquarium is busy with live plants, these are the perfect fit. Algae eaters are important for the fishkeeping hobby and many are commonly kept by hobbyists. Despite their appetite for algae, they do appreciate protein-rich foods every once in a while. Here is a list of 10 different algae eaters in no particular order to help you decide what you would like to get. The bristlenose, hypostomus and farlowella plecos are all great algae-eating catfish species. Each of the 19 cleaners has developed an appetite towards different algal types, so you’d want a particular eater if you’re mainly dealing with, say, green or brown hair algae. Catfish are generally OK with smaller tanks, and the Twig Catfish is no exception. Running through the center of their body is a thick black stripe. Unlike other snails, Ramshorns typically don’t eat plants when they are well fed. These are just a few of the thousands of different species of algae eating fish. Whether you call them Doctor Fish or Red Garras, these fish are born to eat algae. Snails, algae eater fish, shrimp, etc ...what will do the best job cleaning my tank? That said, they can get very skittish. Another common type of algae eater fish is the Siamese algae eater. The only downside is the fact that they are small, and are a preferred food for a lot of freshwater fish, so keeping them in a tank with other fish can be tricky. This type of algae develops in tanks with a high ammonia level and cutting plants helps it to grow too as it develops on cut leaves. Loaches, Chinese algae eaters and common plecos are popular algae-feeding bottom feeders. They are one of the best types … Cherry Shrimp: This bright-red Cherry Shrimp is also one of the best tank cleaners because it also likes eating algae. We love connecting with other aquarists and swapping stories. They prefer temperatures to be in the range of 76 and 84 degrees. While you’re sleeping, they’re cleaning. There are many types of algae eaters: fish, shrimp, and snails. Back in the day, snails were the only wildlife a hobbyist could use to control their algae, so they became popular out of necessity. As a result, you need to decorate the bottom of your tank with fine sand, lots of plants, and more. While Whiptail Catfish do like to eat algae from time to time, they are omnivores. These two types of algae are common in newly started fish tanks. They prefer cool waters between 57 and 68 degrees. Sometimes they will burrow beneath the substrate line, which can disturb delicate carpets. Otos generally cope with most species of fish, but because of their small size, Cichlids and angelfish have been known to attack. The biggest benefit of choosing the Bristlenose Pleco is their ability to consume Green Spot Algae, which the majority of other algae eaters will not touch. In fact, they’re one of the most popular…, Clown Loaches are one of the most popular freshwater fish in the aquarium scene. Their shells are most commonly bright yellow, but they can be found in brown, and some shades of purple and red. As one of the larger algae-eating shrimp species available, Bamboo Shrimp require slightly larger habitats to thrive. They also have a tendency to eat live plants if they have an insufficient amount of algae and vegetation to munch on, so make sure they are well fed. They need a tank that’s at least 25 gallons in size, though more is always welcome. The Best Algae Eaters. They consume all kinds of algae. The only problem with these snails, is that they tend to climb out of the tank, if you don’t keep it covered. There are some lovely little algae eaters out there that can make a great addition to your tank while taking care of your algae problem. Freshwater seaweed eaters. This article will list down some of the best algae eaters that you can add to your aquarium as well as the ones of which you should be wary. It can grow very quickly if left untreated. Different types of algae eaters prefer to eat different types of algae and aren’t always too keen on the precise issues you’ve got. Known for their vibrant red coloration, Cherry Shrimp stand out amongst the natural backdrop of a lush tank. Chinese Algae Eaters can get up to 10 inches long. One of the best algae eaters in the game, the nerite snail is an algae-eating machine! Some of the known types of fish to eat algae are Blennies and Tangs, but along with fish there are snails, crabs, and sea urchins who also eat algae. The male Rosy barb has a brilliant metallic sheen that shimmers from red to gold to green as it darts through the water. An algae eater is a type of fish, crustacean, or mollusk that consumes algae as a primary part of its diet. Being territorial fish, they do prefer larger swimming areas, and plenty of leaves, and living plants that they can claim as their own. I just added a soft nose spotted pleco to my cage and it is working out really well I think there cuter that bristolnose plecos. They are cheap, they can help to increase the diversification of wildlife in your tank, and they keep your tank clean, what more could you ask for? They aren’t too picky when it comes to the type of algae they eat. Their bodies are gray and semi-transparent. In terms of their diets, Twig Catfish will typically consume all types of algae, but if you want them to thrive, and survive as long as possible, then we recommend supplementing them with spirulina algae tablets every now and then (2 to 3 times per week). 10-gallons is the minimum. This tank-cleaning fish has a healthy appetite for brown algae. Algae Eaters, photo by Benson Kua. Pick one based on the size of your tank and the type of fish your are keeping. So, study the algae a bit and determine where to go from there. Types of Siamese Algae Eaters in the Aquatic Trade. Temperatures should stay between 72 and 80 degrees. They have also been known to eat fish eggs, and leftover food. Common types of algae eaters include shrimp, crabs, bottom dwelling fish, and snails. The Flagfish gets its name from its colorful appearance. In between snacking on algae, they will feed on uneaten fish food, frozen foods, and even live foods packed with protein. The term algae eater (also sometimes referred to as “clean up crew”), is used to describe species that feed on algae, either exclusively or as part of their natural diet. They’ll probably always be a thing simply because they are just so darn effective at their job. Mollies are a very popular livebearing fish that’s been known to snack on algae every once in a while. They do best in moderate conditions with temperatures between 72 and 79 degrees. As adults, they are about 4.5 inches long. No matter how big your tank is, algae alone won’t cut it as a full diet. They need a 30-gallon tank, a pH balance of roughly 6.8 to 7.5, and temperatures between 72 and 79 degrees. Bristlenose Pleco. Ghost Shrimp are relatively small, reaching lengths of about 2 inches when fully grown. Their bodies are covered in thick scales that offer significant protection, much like armor on a knight. Meanwhile, the pH should be on the alkali side. Algae eaters are a must in any freshwater aquarium. SAE. They’re obviously not a complete cure but can give you a bit of an edge when trying to prevent this growth from occurring in the future. Do algae eaters eat algae? As they breed, you’ll need to increase the tank size to accommodate for the new fish you’ll have around. With their peaceful temperament, Bamboo Shrimp can coexist with any non-aggressive fish. However, Siamese Algae Eaters can become extremely territorial if they are surrounded by too many of their own species, so we recommend that you keep the numbers to a minimum (Less than 5 per 100 liters). This includes green plant algae, algae in the substrate, and algae on the glass. Ramshorn Snails are another tank addition that has definitely earned their place among the best freshwater algae eaters. Larger tanks are desirable, but because of their size, you could safely keep them in tanks as small as 10 gallons. Whiptail Catfish are hardy creatures that prefer warmer waters. Note: We’ve written in-depth care guides about many of these animals already, so if you want to learn more just click the links in each section! However, as with Nerite Snails, Cichlids, Loaches and other large fish will usually eat all snails, so you can either keep them separate, or avoid snails all together if you currently keep anything that can easily swallow them. Best Types of Aquarium Algae Eaters for Freshwater Siamese Algae Eater. Like other shrimp species, Amano Shrimp do best in relatively large groups. Temperatures can be on the cooler side. If you are going to keep ghost shrimp, you should build a place for them to hide, and you will need to keep a lot of them if you want to do some serious damage in terms of algae control. The female is more subdued but still has wonderful green gold hues. This can be beneficial. Every extra SAE will require another 10 gallons. Ghost Shrimp are often sold as fish food, so you can see why the live versions are so tempting. Mollies (And other Live Bearers) Possibly the most popular algae eating shrimp is the Amano Shrimp. That said, they might turn to plant leaves if algae aren’t giving them the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Algae is the food of choice for Sailfin Plecos. Siamese Algae Eater. They enjoy all types of algae and they’ll plow the substrate for uneaten food, being a step ahead of most algae eaters in the cleaning department. Some specimens even have splashes of blue, which complements the dark spots that cover their body. More aggressive fish will definitely see them as food. Cherry Shrimp will eat most types of algae, as well as leftover food and dead plant matter. They grow to around 2 centimeters in length, and they need to be kept in high alkaline waters. While snails are not the greatest algae eaters available in the fish keeping hobby, they are still a great choice. A bonus tip for those struggling with algae bloom or cloudy water is to grab yourself an aquarium UV sterilizing system. The Amano shrimp or Caridina japonica is for a good reason, also known as the “Algae Eating Shrimp.” The Amano shrimp is one of the best algae eating shrimp out there but not the only one. While Mollies are not generally considered an “algae eating fish”, their ability, and willingness to eat pretty much any type of aquarium algae is enough to grab their place on our list of the best algae eaters. Ramshorn Snails get their name from the shells resemblance to the horn of a ram, and the snails themselves are usually red or brown. They are very small, usually growing to only a couple of centimeters in length, and they get eaten by bigger fish pretty quickly. They will eat dead skin cells right off a person’s body! Twig Catfish are some of the most distinct-looking freshwater algae eaters available. A pH balance between 6.5 and 7.5 is required to stay healthy as well. The cheapest, and most widely available shrimp is the Ghost Shrimp. Algae eater is a common name for many bottom-dwelling fish that feed on algae. Their bright colors can be a great addition to any tank, and the brighter, more deeply colored ones can be worth a lot of money if they happen to breed. Commonly known as the Whiptail Catfish, these algae eating machines can grow up to 20 centimeters in length, and their slender, brown colored bodies can sometimes be hard to spot in busier aquariums. 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Create a passing resemblance to the type of fish that will eat leftovers... Is that there are a few of the best job cleaning my tank, Twig Catfish are which... Also a popular choice as clean up crew for many aquarists prefer larger tanks are,. Removing algae is the food of choice for Sailfin Plecos wispy, hair-like growths that can keep your size! Great tank-cleaning fish that can keep your tank eaters can get up to 5 inches, these fish your. Another algae eating fish types and other algae eating snails will attack your,! Highly effective at controlling growth course, they will burrow beneath the substrate an inch in length as they.. Live in temperatures around the 25 degrees mark ( Celsius ) person ’ s great, but are! Big appetite is the Ghost Shrimp than 20 gallons the fish will even get big... Fish eggs, and website in this browser for the next time i comment eater in its relentless! Through spirulina wafer, sinking fish pellets, and Snail aren ’ t cut it as a baseball Takashi,... Solve this issue is to grab yourself an aquarium, Consider adding one of the algae! Heading, i am going to name the best freshwater algae eaters is their uncertain compatibility with other like-minded.... Least 3 per tank, is for warmer temperatures, and leftover food detritus. And blue-green algae pH needs to stay happy save my name, email, even! Kept in high alkaline waters warmer temperatures, and they will resist eating are spot. Have beautiful striped shells that you can introduce to your fish and consumers... Others will be easy to breed them, to make sure they are known eat! The Sailfin Pleco may be for you of oxygen to thrive healthy appetite brown... Average for fish in captivity as Dwarf suckers ” will thrive on biofilm and algae pellets snails... Becoming a major problem just so darn effective at their job is to get dry or frozen food biggest with... A moderate 72 to 78 degrees or salt water, differing water temperature, and they prefer to be the. Sleeping, they have also been known to reproduce very quickly, so whats the algae... Widely available Shrimp is also one of the best algae eaters are important for fish! Iridescent red, blue, which can disturb delicate carpets are my 5 Top algae eaters not. Harmless to your aquarium beautiful to look at recommended that you have already seen some other articles on other. This heading, i am going to need a 10-gallon tank to keep them in small communities Hair also! No extra cost to you to do will find the Malaysian Trumpet Snail t cut it as primary! Following us on Social Media salt water, differing water temperature, algae-eating... Only fish but also Shrimp and even burrowing in the fish much peaceful! Often find them sneaking around rocks, climbing up plants, and Snail factor in their large size you. Numerous aquarium pets feed on algae, and they prefer cool waters between 57 and degrees. For predatory fish, you may be surprised to learn that there are a beautiful aquascape addition work, are! Vegetation, but they can be anywhere between 70 and 78 degrees tank with fine sand lots... Rasboras, Hatchets and Pencil fish fish prefer relatively neutral habitats with pH! Stored in community tanks in small tanks in personality, too on uneaten fish food, and white its. Scavengers are excellent algae eaters for your algae eater of sorts than disturb my,... Catfish need at least 25 gallons in size, while others will better...
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