Chinese Algae Eater

Chinese Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)

The Chinese Algae Eater is a popular freshwater fish known for its strong appetite for algae, especially when young. It features a slender, elongated body with a gold to olive coloration and a distinctive sucker mouth that allows it to cling to surfaces while grazing. While highly valued in the early stages of life for algae control, this species becomes more territorial and less algae-focused as it matures. Because of this behavioral shift, it’s best suited for larger tanks with fast or robust tankmates. Proper hiding spots and well-oxygenated water are essential for this active bottom-dweller.

Need to Know:

• Recommended For: Intermediate to advanced aquarists; useful for algae control in larger tanks

• Minimum Tank Size: 100 litres

• Temperature Range: 24–28°C

• pH Range: 6.5–7.5

• Recommended School Size: Best kept singly or in a large group to reduce aggression

• Compatibility: Semi-aggressive when mature; avoid slow, long-finned tankmates

• Max Size: 15–28 cm

Shipping Disclaimer:

All fish are usually shipped on Monday or Tuesday mornings via an overnight courier. We use NZ Couriers for all livestock shipping, we find they handle your fish with the best possible care and have quick overnight delivery nationwide.

Special Requests:

If you have any requests for gender/colour etc we will do our best to accommodate them. Please note we can not always accommodate every request due to high stock turnover and what is available at the time. We move all fish sold online into separate holding tanks while they wait to be shipped.

Rural Shipping:

Good news! If you are a rural customer, we can still ship fish to you. Your order will be shipped to your nearest NZ Couriers Depot or Collect/Send Point and you will be phoned once it arrives. You can find your nearest depot/point here: https://nzcextras.co.nz/nearestlocation/