True Flying Fox Question

[troublew/fish]

I was wondering if anyone knows anything about these. I seen them at my lps when I went after my bristlenose pleco today but they did not have any. I would like to know if I can keep them with my platys in a 23 gallon tank? Thank-you

 

[Fiori]

I don't know much about them but don't they have different water requirements to platys? I think flying foxes prefer soft acidic water and platys prefer slightly harder alkaline water - though my platys are in soft acidic and doing great

They can grow to about 6 inches though. Maybe someone else will be along soon who knows more about them

 

[Flippin'thing bit me eye]

These guys can do a pretty good job of cleaning your algea and they are one of the only species that will readily eat brush algea, but when they get a bit larger they can become fairly aggresive and will also switch from algea to normal prepared foods. In short its up to you if you put one with your Plattys but bear in mind that they are fast growing and it may need rehousing.

 

[The-Wolf]

Common name Flying Fox
Scientific name Epalzeorhyncus kalopterus
Synonyms E. kallopterus (misspelling)
Size Up to 6", but usually smaller
Origin N. India, Borneo, Indonesia, Thailand
Tank setup Planted tank, with plenty of decor.
Compatibility Community, but may show some aggression. Territorial with their own kind, keep one specimine only.
Temperature 24-26C (75-79F)
Water chemistry Fairly soft, slightly acidic preferred (pH 6.5-7.0)
Feeding Omnivorous, some vegetable component to the diet is recommended.
Sexing Unknown
Breeding No reports of aquarium breeding
Comments This fish is often confused with the Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilos siamensis) which has a similar appearance. The Flying Fox, however, is not as useful in controlling algae. They do eat planarians (flatworms) which can become a nuisance in aquaria.

HTH