Candidate
Siamese algae eater
Crossocheilus oblongus
Open full care profile →Photo identification · reviewed 2026-07-31
Siamese algae eater vs flying fox
Look closely at the black lateral stripe, the clear fin edges and the mouth before treating either fish as an algae solution.
Candidate
Flying fox
Epalzeorhynchos kalopterum
Open full care profile →Interactive observation guide
Inspect one clue at a time
Use the photographs above, then select each clue. Do not make an identification from one feature alone.
A Siamese algae eater's dark stripe typically continues into the tail fin and has a more ragged edge.
Care reality check
Compare the adult requirements
A visual identification changes which limits you should plan around.
| Requirement | Siamese algae eater | Flying fox |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 12–16 cm | 12–15 cm |
| Minimum tank | 200 L · 120 cm | 250 L · 120 cm |
| Temperature | 23–27°C | 24–26°C |
| pH | 6–8 | 6–7.5 |
| GH | 3–20 dGH | 5–12 dGH |
| Social minimum | 6 | 1 |
| Temperament | active social grazer | territorial |
Visible differences
Clues to inspect
- A Siamese algae eater's dark stripe typically continues into the tail fin and has a more ragged edge.
- A flying fox usually has a smoother stripe, a visible gold line above it and dark edging in the fins.
- Flying foxes have small paired barbels; viewing the mouth clearly is often difficult in a tank.
Shared traits
Why they are confused
- Both are streamlined Asian cyprinids sold under inconsistent common names.
- Both become active, substantial fish that need swimming length.
Why it matters
Do not stop at the name
Their social behaviour and adult management differ, so the correct identity matters more than the shop's algae-eater label.
Uncertainty
When a photo is not enough
Trade names are unreliable and several similar Crossocheilus species circulate. Treat a photo result as a shortlist.