Chinese Algae Eater

lilly_sand99

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Marshalltown IA
So, I have had one of these guys in a 5 gallon tank and he is chilling. But I have done some reading that as they get older they become more omnivorous. I have no idea how to cater to this. What should I start feeding? And when?
 

EllieMay

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So, I have had one of these guys in a 5 gallon tank and he is chilling. But I have done some reading that as they get older they become more omnivorous. I have no idea how to cater to this. What should I start feeding? And when?

I have NO knowledge on these guys but I’d love to see a pic:))
 

SasquatchTortoise

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Hmm... What other fish do you have in there? They may be fine, but the algae eaters will eat their slime coat if they don't get enough food. They also will tear holes in plants. Get them sinking foods like algae wafers and blood worms. If you ever get another tank and consider algae eaters, try Otocinclus catfish. They get no more than two inches, but will still need the occasional nibble of food. He may eventually need a bigger tank if you want to keep him long term
 

Srmcclure

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I had one of those and he turned into a real A-hole lol he tried snacking on all my fishing. Right now I actually have a siamese algae eater. The eat more varieties of algae and not as angry at the world lol.

Like they said, I bought frozen blood worms and algae waifers and that kept everyone happy
 

NorCal tortoise guy

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I had half a dozen of these guys in my big tank then I was younger they were all about 6 inches and never caused me a problem just ate what ever made it to the bottom but all the other fish were bigger though man I miss having a big tank haha
 

Maro2Bear

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Do you also feed chunks of blanched zucchini or cucumber? Make sure it’s well fed.

I know that Plecos are different than your fish, but take a look at this guy, catfish and goldfish enjoying zucchini. Try keeping your guy happy.

 

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