Distinguishing Among Algae Eaters

[Dorkhedeos]

nice, all that chart needs is some pictures now


Edit: not my pictures but ill post anyways because they are kinda clear

siamese algae eater

flying fox

 

[steelhealr]

I added my False SAE in. Others can feel free to post pix if they have any of the other four. That would definitely help. SH

 

[Mad Duff]

This is my False Siamese Flying Fox:

I started off with 4 at about 1", I lost one a month or so later but the other 3 were still together in the same tank. Then one started getting rather aggressive with the other 2 so he was moved to my 80 gallon tank. The one in the photo and the other one have lived in the same tank without any bother since, but I have noticed that these 2 do not have as much red in the fins as the one that is on its own and the red around the mouth is not as intense neither is the blue spot just above the pectoral fin. So I don't know if the one pictured and its tank mate are females and the one in the other tank on its own maybe male.

 

[steelhealr]

After placing a post in the TFF Index on my False Siamensis, I had a deeper appreciation of the confusion that surrounds the identification process the group of fish known as algae eaters. I tried to put together, in table form, a chart that might help anyone before they add one to their system. SH






Distinguishing Between Algae Eaters


Siamese Algae Eater (SAE), Crossocheilus siamensis
False Siamensis, Epalzeorhynchus sp.
Flying Fox, Epalzeorhynchus kalopterus
Crossocheilus oblongus
Chinese Algae Eater (CAE), Gyrinocheilus aymonieri


Horizontal body stripe edge
zigzags
smooth
smooth
smooth
uneven


Horizontal body stripe extends through the tail

Yes
No
Yes
No



Light stripe above the dark stripe?
Sometimes
Yes
Yes
?



Back/dorsal area
Black edged scales
(reticulated)
Solid grayish-brown





Dorsal Fins
Transparent
Darkened rays; overall
yellowish in color
Dark bands with white
tips
Transparent
Transparent


Anal Fins
Transparent
Yellowish

Transparent
Transparent


Pelvic Fins
Transparent
Yellowish

Transparent
Transparent


Mouth

Appears reddish-pink,
non-clinging suckermouth


Clinging suckermouth


Barbels
1 pair
2 pair
2 pair
2 pair
None






False Siamensis:

 

[Mad Duff]

In addition to the above the False Siamensis also has a blue spot located at the base of the pectoral fine:

This is very intense on one of mine but not on the other two but is visible on them all.
They can also develop a red tip to the dorsal fin and upper and lower edges of tail.

 

[kramers]

Here's a pic of my CAE "Booger"