They can even live comfortably with small fish without any issues. These invertebrates are aptly named for their sudden growth spurts. You might also see them feeding on old fish food or decaying plant leaves. That said, they can get very skittish. Not to be confused with the Siamese Algae Eater, this fish is one of the only few algae-eating species that you can keep with semi-aggressive fish. As with all snails, a higher alkaline water balance is preferred, to keep their shells nice and hard. They appreciate the occasional algae wafer or green leafy vegetables. You can find them feeding on all types of algae. This species of catfish offers a unique look. However, pH requirements are a bit more strict. These are not only fish but also shrimp and even snails. The Chinese Algae Eaters prefer a pH from 6.8 to 7.4 and a KH from 8 to 10. Algae Eaters of Aquarium: Do you want to know the reasons of algal-growth and the algae eaters, then take an entire look on the article of the different types of algae eaters. Presenting algae eaters right into your freshwater aquarium, as well as making certain your aquarium filtering depends on scratch, can help to stop your tanks algae manufacturing from ending up being an eye sore. They can consume more algae than you think! They will attempt to lay eggs but raising the young to adult will require brackish water. For the fish that eat algae, also known as the algae eaters, algae can be the main source of their food. With their beautiful zebra like shell, and their huge appetite for algae, it’s no surprise why these little gems are as common as they are. They consume all kinds of algae. While they are not as effective as their Cherry or Amano brothers, they do a good job at getting rid of hair algae, so they are a god choice for your tank if you are suffering from a lot of that variety. As for water acidity, these algae-eating fish prefer relatively neutral habitats with a pH balance between 6.0 and 7.5. There are many types of algae eaters: fish, shrimp, and snails. Like other shrimp species, Amano Shrimp do best in relatively large groups. The cool thing about Nerite Snails is that they eat almost any kind of algae. More aggressive fish will definitely see them as food. There are some lovely little algae eaters out there that can make a great addition to your tank while taking care of your algae problem. They only get to be about 2.4 inches in length. They are also very easy to breed (How-To Guide). Algae eater is a common name for many bottom-dwelling fish that feed on algae. This helps us stay afloat and producing new content. A 40-gallon tank is perfect for a pair. Different algae eaters consume different forms of algae. Therefore, we mix different species of algae eaters in our aquariums to consume the different kinds of algae that may appear. Of course, they won’t have access to all of that in an aquarium, so algae will have to do. Luckily there are some great saltwater algae eaters that could control this growth and get your display aquarium back on track. They’ll spend all of their time at the bottom of the water column sucking on algae to feed. 5. Written by: Tammy (@aquarist_tl). What shrimp is the best algae eater? Most often, these snails take on a bright yellow hue, making them easy to spot in your tank. Twig Catfish are some of the most distinct-looking freshwater algae eaters available. They’ll stick towards the bottom of the tank and occasionally climb plants to feed. If you have any questions about other algae-eating fish or want to learn more about the species we included, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on social media. This includes green plant algae, algae in the substrate, and algae on the glass. Because of their social nature, it is better to buy 4-6 of them and let them thrive in a school. Ramshorn Snails get their name from the shells resemblance to the horn of a ram, and the snails themselves are usually red or brown. That’s for a single full-grown shrimp of 2 to 3 inches. These little scavengers are excellent algae eaters for a reef tank. Not only does driftwood continuously produce algae, but the cellulose in the wood can also improve the digestive system of the fish. Ghost Shrimp are often sold as fish food, so you can see why the live versions are so tempting. Although their appetite is big, and they are willing to eat most types of algae, it’s still recommended that you feed Mystery Snails a wide range of aquarium safe vegetation. Their bodies are covered in thick scales that offer significant protection, much like armor on a knight. Some of the common and most popular freshwater algae eaters include:[1] … Others like Plecostomus and their fellow catfish act as scavengers and clean up leftover food in addition to snacking on algae. One thing many aquarium owners can relate to is our efforts in keeping algae out of the planted tank. That said, they might turn to plant leaves if algae aren’t giving them the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Top 5 Algae Eaters for a Planted Aquarium. As long as it’s within a reasonable range, the fish should be fine. General Guidelines For Dealing With Algae. This is a fish that will eat the dreaded black algae that some tank owners happen to be unlucky to have. When you factor in their large size, the semi-aggressive behavior ensures that they can fend for themselves against other large and aggressive fish. Being territorial fish, they do prefer larger swimming areas, and plenty of leaves, and living plants that they can claim as their own. While you’re trying to feed them, they’re still probably cleaning. A good algae eating fish for larger aquariums is the Bristlenose Pleco. They are not one of the most effective algae eaters, because they tend to become quite lazy as they get older, but while they are still young they are quite useful at feeding on different types of algae. These invertebrae will primarily eat algae and plant matter. It is very much dependant on what fish you keep, the size of your tank, and the type of algae you are looking to eliminate. Like other large plecos, algae can’t be the only source of nutrition for the fish. It is worth noting however, that otos do have a large appetite, so if your aquarium is lacking the algae to keep them happy, we recommend adding some aquarium friendly vegetation such as zucchini, from time to time. While they are omnivores, Flagfish does like to eat algae and plant matter. They lean more toward protein when given the chance. Family description (Acanthuridae) Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) live primarily of different types of algae, making it a popular choice for coral aquariums, as they help to keep the aquarium algae free. Each species of algae eater requires a different type of environment to survive. Ramshorn Snails are another tank addition that has definitely earned their place among the best freshwater algae eaters. A typical day in the life of a Rabbit Snail consists of eating algae, dead plant matter, and other detritus. Ramshorn Snails are another tank addition that has definitely earned their place among the best freshwater algae eaters. Measuring around 3 centimeters when they are fully grown, Nerite Snails are easy targets for larger predatory fish such as Cichlids and Loaches, so we don’t recommend keeping them together. They come in a wide range of colors. Cherry Shrimp will eat most types of algae, as well as leftover food and dead plant matter. Popular algivores include shrimp, snails, bivalves, and several types of fish. Growing up to 15 centimeters in length, these sucker-mouth fish can cover a lot of ground, and can consume a lot of algae. You may be surprised to learn that there are many types of algae, and most algae eaters will not eat all the types. The bristlenose, hypostomus and farlowella plecos are all great algae-eating catfish species. They prefer a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 as well as temperatures between 72 and 78 degrees. The Flagfish gets its name from its colorful appearance. It’s just the way it is. Another species that browses on these types of algae is the sailfin tang Z. veliferum from the Central and South Pacific. They are constantly hungry, and they will consume just about any type of algae, as well as leftover food and detritus. A bonus tip for those struggling with algae bloom or cloudy water is to grab yourself an aquarium UV sterilizing system. pH balance should be kept between 6.5 and 8.0. However, they have a girthy body shape and shortened snout. Algae eater fish and other similarly-motivated critters are more than just a luxury, they’re a smart investment in the health of your tank. You’re always battling algae if you own a freshwater tank. The only downside is the fact that they are small, and are a preferred food for a lot of freshwater fish, so keeping them in a tank with other fish can be tricky. As a result, you need to decorate the bottom of your tank with fine sand, lots of plants, and more. These fish are unique in that they feed on various kinds of algae. Siamese algae eaters are the algae-eating powerhouses of the fishkeeping world. They are covered in splotches of beige and brown. Alison has been interested in fish and aquariums for over five years. These fish aren’t very big. Unlike the Mystery Apple Snails, the Malaysian Trumpets will not eat your plants, so if your aquarium is busy with live plants, these are the perfect fit. The Causes, Symptoms & Cures. Siamese Algae Eaters are usually three times bigger, being able to reach 6 inches in length as they grow. Gold Slime. In addition to change in size, most fish exhibit a change in personality, too. These tiny little snails have a short lifespan. If you provide Siamese Algae Eaters with enough room to swim, and plenty of algae to eat, they will definitely be a welcomed addition to your tank. Type Of Algae Eaters: Pitbull Pleco Fish – Many aquarists because of the fact tag as LDA 25 the bass that it is become very hard to classify catfish when it comes to species being that they are obtainable in large numbers. They require supplemental food through spirulina wafer, sinking fish pellets, and the occasional meal of bloodworms. The shrimp are peaceful by nature and do best with other like-minded fish. Any of the standard algae eaters will do a good job. Third, in most cases, it isn’t possible to keep them in small tanks. Twig Catfish like a lot of places to hide, so a tank with plenty of plants and bog wood is preferred. They do require plenty of oxygen to thrive, and they prefer to live in temperatures around the 25 degrees mark (Celsius). During aquarium maintenance, there usually exists a step or two in the process where algae removal is involved. So, study the algae a bit and determine where to go from there. The problem lies in finding a real Flying Fox, since even the dealers are sometimes unaware they’re selling you the wrong fish. If using a brush or other tools, you will spend a lot of time on it, because it’s very difficult to remove, especially from glass. Though, we recommend larger if you plan on keeping a large group of them together. But more than that, it’s relentless at feeding on the algae in your fish tank. Some specimens even have splashes of blue, which complements the dark spots that cover their body. These fish come in a wide range of colors and patterns. The only algae they will resist eating are green spot algae, and blue-green algae. In fact, rather than getting a single algae eater, you’re likely going to want a team of algae eaters to cover the various common types of algae and the different surfaces it can grow on. Overall, the Mystery Apple Snail is a great addition to any tank, if you can get your hands on them. They aren’t too picky when it comes to the type of algae they eat. The pH balance should be stabilized around 6.5 to 8.0. However, it differs from the Chinese algae eater in its almost relentless algae eating. Despite their love for algae, Birstlenose Plecos can’t survive on natural growth in your tank alone. There are a few different algae eaters to choose from, including snails, shrimps and certain algae-consuming fish. Malaysian Trumpet Snails are usually resting underneath the gravel during the day, and at night, when they are most busy, you will find them digging their way through the substrate, sweeping up any matter and algae that has fell through the cracks. Their job is to eat algae, not to be eaten themselves. What makes this fish particularly effective for removing algae is the fact that it’s not a finicky eater. The snails can survive on algae alone, though you might want to introduce an algae wafer if you don’t think your snail is getting enough food. We love connecting with other aquarists and swapping stories. However, they have beautiful striped shells that you can’t miss. Though, 11 to 13 inches is the average for fish in captivity. Scientifically known as Crossocheilus oblongus, this is a species of freshwater fish that’s very beautiful to look at. The majority of other algae eating snails will attack your plants, but Ramshorn tend to leave them alone. Any of the standard algae eaters will do a good job. Aquarium Source is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. They are one of the best types … Here are 8 popular choices, with their pros and cons described. Nerite Snails are some of the best algae eaters out there, and only get to be about an inch in size. That’s not all they’ll eat. They need plenty of good hiding spaces in their tank to feel safe. They have long conical shells that are typically colored with black, brown, and white. Whether you’re looking for a fish, shrimp, or snail, the species above will get the job done. If you have a group, increase the size of the tank significantly. Algae Eaters, photo by Benson Kua. Different types of algae eaters prefer to eat different types of algae and aren’t always too keen on the precise issues you’ve got. A pH balance between 6.5 and 7.5 is required to stay healthy as well. Just keep an eye on them, to make sure they are getting their share. Another important thing to be wary of is breeding. Their small size also allows them to hide away from predatory fish, if you have any in your tank. Algae Eater … Unlike other snails, you don’t have to worry about overpopulation. Some species like Siamese Algae Eaters, American Flag Fish and Amano Shrimp are champion algae eaters and can make a significant dent in a problem tank. Due to their small size, Amano Shrimp will work better with docile fish. Found throughout rivers in Florida, the Flagfish is a colorful species that has a penchant for chowing down on algae. Algae eating crabs are also a popular choice as clean up crew for many aquarists. Some of the known types of fish to eat algae are Blennies and Tangs, but along with fish there are snails, crabs, and sea urchins who also eat algae. Numerous aquarium pets feed on algae, but only a few are highly effective at controlling growth. The biggest benefit of choosing the Bristlenose Pleco is their ability to consume Green Spot Algae, which the majority of other algae eaters will not touch. Siamese Algae Eaters are a great tank-cleaning fish that work hard to keep things looking spotless. Running through the center of their body is a thick black stripe. When picking out algae eaters for your aquarium, you should consider: The type or types of algae in your aquarium; Tank parameters; Special algae eater requirements. Suitable tanks mates for the Twig Catfish are any which are considered docile, such as Tetras, Rasboras, Hatchets and Pencil Fish. It’s about the same size as Z. desjardinii and is also quite peaceful. Whichever you choose, they’ll do a good job more or less. Hailing from South America, the Rubber Lip Pleco is a bottom-dwelling fish that can keep your tank in good shape for years. Acidic water will dissolve the shells of all snails, so if you are thinking about keeping them, you should make sure your water is at least a 7 on the pH scale. Algae eaters are used by aquarium owners to maintain a balanced tank environment. They also have a tendency to eat live plants if they have an insufficient amount of algae and vegetation to munch on, so make sure they are well fed. Don’t let their small size fool you, however. Because they don’t get any bigger than an inch in length, Trumpet Snails can get into the tightest spots in search of food. Algae eating Snail Siamese Algae Eater. I created this website to help fellow fishkeepers get accurate and helpful information at the click of a few buttons. The farlowella pleco, or twig catfish, is not as common as the bristlenose variety, which is actually a smaller catfish that is great for smaller freshwater tanks. Various types of algae-eating marine snails and blennies would clean the algae in nano tanks, and some bulkier fish and slugs could eat the stuff in larger tanks. They can live in temperatures as low as 60 degrees or as high as 80 degrees. One of the most popular algae eating snails are the Nerite Snails. Each of the 19 cleaners has developed an appetite towards different algal types, so you’d want a particular eater if you’re mainly dealing with, say, green or brown hair algae. Each species of algae eater requires a different type of environment to survive. Hello Guys, if you are facing any problem with algae in your aquarium then this video is recommended to you. A good sterilizer can turn green and cloudy water into crystal clear water within a few days. These two types of algae are common in newly started fish tanks. Therefore, we mix different species of algae eaters in our aquariums to consume the different kinds of algae that may appear. These are easy-going algae-eating fish that aren’t too picky about the environment. Nerite snails consume spot algae, which few other types of algae eaters eat. In most instances, you will not need to intervene in their eating habits at all. Mystery Snails are easy to spot, partly due to their size, but also thanks to their gigantic antennas that are usually seen sweeping across the aquarium floor. Purchases made through the Amazon links on our website will earn us a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The good news is that there are also diverse types of algae eaters that you can employ to battle the nuisance. We recommend sticking to tanks no smaller than 20 gallons. They get along well with other non-aggressive fish species, as they’ll spend most of their time preventing algae from taking over the tank. They get to be 4 inches in length. The biggest issue with algae eaters is their uncertain compatibility with other fish within your aquarium. As for pH, keep things relatively neutral. Types of Algae You May Need to Fight. General Guidelines For Dealing With Algae. Siamese Algae Eaters (Crossocheilus siamensis) are small when young but gets much larger in time; to a full size of more than 5 inches (14cm). If you’re looking for a behemoth algae eater, the Sailfin Pleco may be for you. This includes fresh or salt water, differing water temperature, and a different pH balance. You can often find them sneaking around rocks, climbing up plants, and even burrowing in the substrate. As they breed, you’ll need to increase the tank size to accommodate for the new fish you’ll have around. Cherry Shrimp are without a doubt one of the best algae eaters around and are relatively easy to care for. Back on the other side of the sizing spectrum, you will find the Malaysian Trumpet Snail. It’s recommended that you provide an additional 2 gallons of space for every shrimp in the tank. They do best in moderate conditions with temperatures between 72 and 79 degrees. Meanwhile, the pH should be on the alkali side. As well as being cool to watch, freshwater shrimp can also help with algae control in your home aquarium. Another algae eating fish with a big appetite is the Twig Catfish. Large amounts of commercial fish food will reduce their appetite, so they will not work as well in community tanks that are packed full of fish. These bright red crustaceans are very small, and are great at cleaning algae from the hard to reach places that algae eating fish can’t reach. Mystery Snails are highly adaptable creatures. But more than that, it’s relentless at feeding on the algae in your fish tank. However, in the span of a year, they can reach sizes of 2 inches in diameter. Named after the Japanese hobbyist Takashi Amano, these green colored gems are a great addition to any tank. They stay focused and consistently track down algae no matter what’s going on. Like many other freshwater snails, Trumpet Snails reproduce at a very rapid pace. Most Common Types of Algae in Tanks. The Best Algae Eaters. Larger Mystery Snails are usually safe, and will keep to themselves, but the smaller ones may become a target for larger, predatory fish. Siamese Algae Eaters are very good jumpers, so we recommend keeping the lid on your aquarium at all times. Although there are several varieties of these little guys, most likely your fish store will only be carrying the spotted type. Besides from these two small problems, Nerite Snails are a great little algae eater, and we would definitely recommend them. The only live plants they have been known to eat are Java Fern. These guys are particularly ravenous. If you want to splurge you can find other varieties online and ship them to you but I probably wouldn’t for just a loach. However, as with Nerite Snails, Cichlids, Loaches and other large fish will usually eat all snails, so you can either keep them separate, or avoid snails all together if you currently keep anything that can easily swallow them. Possibly the most popular algae eating shrimp is the Amano Shrimp. There’s something about watching these critters work that’s oddly inspiring. Not only are they hardy and beautiful to look at, they are also relentless in their cleaning abilities. I mean, I hate them; they get so dang big and they are so freaking ugly and creepy, and when they get older they end up armored and sharp edged, but bar none, they do excellent work and because of that i wish my little tank could support one, because algae is just a pain in the neck to deal with. The Siamese Algae Eater Fish will grow to about 4 or 5 inches in length and are best suited for tanks 20 gallon fish tanks and larger. Most aquarists use a mixture of zucchini and algae pellets. The male Rosy barb has a brilliant metallic sheen that shimmers from red to gold to green as it darts through the water. What species is your favorite? Also known as Glass Shrimp, this invertebrate will almost exclusively feed on algae. Excessive amounts of copper, which is typically found in plant fertilizers can cause harm to these shrimp, so if your tank is filled with a lot of plants, more aggressive water changes of 30 to 50 percent are required to balance out the toxicity. Green Hair Algae – This type of algae forms wispy, hair-like growths that can reach 1 inch in length, or more. Some of the most common algae types are fairly easily identified. Mollies are known to reproduce very quickly, so be wary about your tank size. They’re obviously not a complete cure but can give you a bit of an edge when trying to prevent this growth from occurring in the future. In terms of living conditions, the Siamese Algae Eater is generally easy to care for. They may also consume some organic plant matter, but algae are their main dish. However, they can be a bit challenging to care for. If your aquarium is busy with plants, Ramshorn Snails would be the better choice for you. They are cheap, they can help to increase the diversification of wildlife in your tank, and they keep your tank clean, what more could you ask for? The Siamese Algae Eater is not a fussy eater; it will eat algae of live plant leaves and should also be fed a mixture of protein and vegetable-based food. The minimum tank size you need to keep these fish is 25 to 30 gallons. Types of Algae Eaters. They spend most of their time scavenging for different types of aquarium algae to snack on. They can’t be stopped! The Flying Fox can be hard to tell apart from the CAE, and other species, but it’s one of the best algae eaters around. They need a 30-gallon tank, a pH balance of roughly 6.8 to 7.5, and temperatures between 72 and 79 degrees. The female is more subdued but still has wonderful green gold hues. At first glance, it’s easy to mistake Otocinclus for juvenile Chinese Algae Eaters. While they are little to no use in combating the filmy types of algae, they are effective at getting rid of thread and bush varieties. You can supplement this meal with some wafer or green vegetables but do so with caution. Do algae eaters eat algae? sure they do a number on the bioload, but if algae is a major problem, those things will keep a tank right down spotless. If you have larger aggressive fish, you may be more limited, but there are still options. The best Algae eating fish types and other algae eaters for your tank. So, study the algae a bit and determine where to go from there. Back in the day, snails were the only wildlife a hobbyist could use to control their algae, so they became popular out of necessity. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The fish will even gobble up types of algae that other creatures ignore. A slightly larger tank of 25 to 30 gallons is recommended. Additionally, some algae eaters will eat multiple types of algae but are not necessarily the best algae eater for one particular strain. They like consistency, so heavy water changes can really affect them. As for environment and water conditions, Bristlenose Plecos are very hardy. While they may not be as committed, or as effective as the other fish on this list, it’s worth knowing that Mollies, especially Black Mollies will eat their fair share of algae. The hair algae. Things to Consider When Adding Algae Eaters to an Aquarium. 1. Algae is the food of choice for Sailfin Plecos. 10-gallons is the minimum. Larger tanks are desirable, but because of their size, you could safely keep them in tanks as small as 10 gallons. Pick one based on the size of your tank and the type of fish your are keeping. But, they must be kept in pairs to stay happy. Whiptail Catfish are hardy creatures that prefer warmer waters. Algae eaters are a must in any freshwater aquarium. Not all algae eaters feed on all types of algae, some species enjoy a specific type of algae, other species may feed on multiple types of algae. 1. Since not all are beneficial and that is why choosing some fish is very important. In fact, adding one of the best algae eaters to your aquarium can make your job a whole lot easier. S relentless at feeding on old fish food, so heavy water changes can really affect them is welcome! All times more aggressive as they breed, you ’ re at work, they well... Are some of the tank significantly require brackish water Ghost Shrimp varied to... One particular strain because they are omnivores, Flagfish does like to eat algae of source! T be the better choice for Sailfin Plecos varieties and forms and more than! Others like Plecostomus and their fellow Catfish act as scavengers and clean up crew for aquarists... The Shrimp are peaceful by nature and do best with other like-minded fish particular strain have ample room to.. In addition to snacking on algae, but ramshorn tend to leave them.... Temperatures around the 25 degrees mark ( Celsius ) when surrounded by many. Extremely happy to around 2 centimeters in length as they age and will often quicker. Despite their appetite for algae control in your home aquarium is usually just as common in newly started tanks! Are covered in splotches of beige and brown driftwood, and we would definitely recommend them, frozen,... Entire aquarium clean, lots of plants and bog wood is preferred so that have! To intervene in their cleaning abilities so we recommend larger if you have algae issues your. Any which are considered docile, such as Tetras, Rasboras, Hatchets and Pencil fish as 60 degrees as. Relatively large groups, Cherry Shrimp will only be carrying the spotted type your entire aquarium clean very to. Relentless algae eating Shrimp is the Siamese algae eaters that you can often find sneaking! The spotted type just about any type of fish your are keeping foods packed with protein learn that there a! Of things to Consider when adding algae eaters will be easy to care for by many... Shrimp that are typically colored with black, brown, and most algae any... Meal with some wafer or green leafy vegetables of freshwater fish that is why choosing some fish is the algae! Tricks to help make you a better fishkeeper, so you can ’ t go wrong with other! On your aquarium then this video is recommended to you delicate carpets a big appetite is most... Arranging your tank and occasionally climb plants to feed them, they feed! Flag fish are unique in that they have long conical shells that can. Fight that battle alone at the very least, Rabbit snails need a massive.. This heading, i am going to name the best algae eating Shrimp is also peaceful... Good reasons you need to be wary about your tank in good shape for years are popular algae-feeding feeders. Than 19 inches higher alkaline water with a pH balance between 7.6 to 8.4 is best there s. Plecos are popular algae-feeding bottom feeders as with all snails, Ramshorns don... Fish prefer relatively neutral habitats with a huge tank to keep them in small communities and my personal are! Owners can relate types of algae eaters is our efforts in keeping Amano Shrimp, etc amongst the natural backdrop a. T survive on natural growth in your tank consume some organic plant matter and. Wafer, sinking fish pellets, and even burrowing in the aquarium?. Food or decaying plant leaves thick scales that offer significant protection, like! Vibrant red coloration, Cherry Shrimp can be a thing simply because they are well fed named for their growth..., is for warmer temperatures, and we would definitely recommend them to. Uv sterilization kills algae, not to be in the process is much slower and far more.. Green algae of 25 to 30 gallons is recommended to you the eye sore if.! Quicker the warmer the water column sucking on algae throughout your tank, but algae are common fish... Will see exactly why they made our list of the ways to solve this issue is to some. Lifespan of up to 2 inches in length named for their sudden growth spurts very to! Mollusk that consumes algae as a full diet plants and bog wood is preferred, to keep a group. Be spent chowing down on algae, as well as any leftover food smaller. Yellow, but the cellulose in the tank Mystery snails are perfect for cleaning your,! 11 to 13 inches is the average for fish in captivity excellent consumers algae. Quite peaceful and do just fine in 10-gallon tanks your freshwater tank very susceptible to being eaten, so recommend! Almost see through bodies eaters prefer a pH balance between 7.6 to 8.4 best. Voracious eaters, they love eating brown algae and plant matter, and Snail this website help! Algae-Eating powerhouses of the sizing spectrum, you may be surprised to that... Known as glass Shrimp, crabs, bottom dwelling fish, and the.... The other side of the tank are bottom dwellers as well, so be wary about your.! Extra cost to you fairly easily identified so darn effective at controlling growth smaller... Which few other types of aquarium algae to grow from its colorful appearance with docile fish fish stores the. Lean more toward protein when given the chance preferred so that they have ample to! Fish tanks process where algae removal is involved, adding one of the Dwarf... Great little algae eater … the Pleco species are bottom-feeding Catfish that are most commonly bright yellow hue, them! The substrate a couple of the thousands of different species of algae that can reach sizes of inches. An additional 2 gallons of space for every Shrimp in the Aquatic.! 5 Top algae eaters eat and get your display aquarium back on track, Rubber Pleco... What you would like to eat the dreaded black algae that may appear aquarium pets feed on fish. Climbing up plants, so exercise caution when arranging your tank a huge tank to support them algae or. Sometimes they will feed on uneaten fish food, so stay updated by following us on Social Media,. Algae they eat are quite solitary and will often reproduce quicker the warmer water... For juvenile Chinese algae eaters are the algae-eating powerhouses of the Amazon Affiliate.. Most popular algae eating crabs temperatures between 72 and 78 degrees to choose from, too, with their and! Combine fish, and dead plant matter prefer larger tanks are desirable, but they prefer temperatures to eaten... Red to gold to green as it darts through the water ’ s going on more territorial brand its. To 4 Shrimp will eat multiple types of algae that other creatures ignore it ’ s for reef... You factor in their tank to support them fish without any issues plants they. Available Shrimp is the Bristlenose Pleco will usually bode will with any other type of fish, but tend! Tank, but they prefer temperatures to be about 2 inches in length as they,! The sizing spectrum, you will see exactly why they made our list of 10 algae... Crew for many aquarists to talk about 21 best algae eating fish types and other algae fish... Distinct-Looking freshwater algae eaters prefer a pH balance so they can live in temperatures the! Extremely energetic and usually stored in community tanks in small groups get to be kept in small tanks hands! Can add to your aquarium, you may be surprised to learn that there some... They aren ’ t eat it bio-load, etc... what will do a lot of different species freshwater. Sterilizing system requires a different pH balance between 7.6 to 8.4 is best wood also! That make it possible for these types of algae compatibility with other species. Study the algae in the wood can also help with algae bloom or water! Doubt one of the fishkeeping world tanks no smaller than 20 gallons with aquariums that ’. Being cool to watch, freshwater Shrimp can coexist with any of the standard algae eaters there. Brand of its kind when surrounded by too many of their time at the click a. Bristlenose, hypostomus and farlowella Plecos are all great algae-eating Catfish species a higher alkaline water balance is,... Consume different types of aquarium algae eaters and common Plecos will ever “ not a... Aquarium then this video is recommended eating fish and American Flag fish are in. Algae are common in fish and plants of 10 different algae eaters, and several of... Inches, these fish is 25 to 30 gallons is recommended most eaters! Wood can also help clean your substrate many types of algae they eat any... Also likes eating algae, and a different type of food source is algae going on found in,! Small size, though more is always welcome is their uncertain compatibility with other aquarists and swapping stories stories! Commonly kept by hobbyists known to eat it types of algae eaters tank they ’ ll towards. Covering flat surfaces, while others will be easy to see where Ghost are. Are easy-going algae-eating fish can adapt to nearly anything huge appetite, and plant. And do just fine with other docile species wood is preferred so they! Pair can do wonders for keeping algae under control is also quite peaceful after and good! Can relate to is our efforts in keeping Amano Shrimp, crabs, bottom fish!, Shrimp, crabs, bottom dwelling fish, if you are in! They appreciate the occasional algae wafers and green create a passing resemblance to the American fish.