Siamese Algae Eater

[keiths]

I went to 3 lfs's today trying to get a Siamese Algae Eater but I couldn't find one. So they ended up selling me a golden algae eater which I assume is just a regular algae eater but just golden. I'm not really sure at this point if that was a good idea or not. What is the differences from the SAE and the golden one? I have live plants in my tank so I have to take that into consideration. Would a SAE and golden algae eater be alright in the same tank? I know the golden one can get pretty big is that the only difference?

 

[lilfishie]

what size tank do you have?

 

[diademhill]

The golden is a colour variety of the chinese algae eater - a very different fish to a SAE.

 

[keiths]

It's a standard 55 gallon tank.

Any suggestions?

The golden algae eater seems to be very active and eating off the glass currently. Right now its about 1 in to 1 1/2 in long. I know it can grow to be pretty big. I have some tetras and gouramis in the tank currently. I'm planning on getting some molly's and either red tail or rainbow shark.

 

[steelhealr]

If it's a CAE, you DO NOT WANT IT. Read thru this and the links thoroughly.

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=134788

SH

 

[keiths]

Yes I know I don't want it but I already have it. Should I try to return it to the lfs?

What would be a good replacement for it? I'm looking for some good community bottom feaders. Something that will eat algae but not uproot plants.

 

[diademhill]

You'd be better off with a bristlenose.

 

[mitchie]

BN's don't eat off plants like SAE's do though. If only someone could make a hybrid

 

[steelhealr]

Return the CAE. It will cause you trouble down the line. Oto's, SAE's, small plecos. SH