Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Silver Flying Fox, also known as the Reticulated Siamese Algae Eater, is native to flowing streams and rivers of southeast Asia. Closely related to the Siamese Algae Eater (C. oblongus), but less frequently seen in the aquarium trade. Silver flying fox are popular for planted aquariums because they are able to remove algae in unconventional places compared to standard sucker-mouthed algae eaters. Specifically, Silver flying fox are great at controlling nuisance blackbeard algae off the edges of plant leaves. While Silver flying fox are relatively easy to care for, they do best when above average water parameters are maintained. Silver flying fox can be kept in groups in larger aquariums. An adult Silver flying fox can reach a size of approximately 5″.

Diet Requirements: In the wild Silver flying fox are herbivores, feeding on various algae, phytoplankton and microfauna. A diet made up of various high quality vegetable based flake foods containing Spirulina, sinking pellet foods and algae wafers (occasional) are ideal. Offering blanched pieces of zucchini and cucumber, or raw romaine lettuce and spinach, would be an excellent treat for these algae eaters. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish. Silver flying fox may scavenge on some protein based foods, however their intake should be limited to avoid prolonged health issues.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 20 gallon aquarium is ideal for a Silver flying fox. A group will require a larger aquarium in order to ensure there is enough natural algae growth to support them. Silver flying fox are intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes. Weekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters favorable (Nitrates < 30 ppm); Silver flying fox do not like an abundance of organic build up (i.e., nitrate). Additionally, Silver flying fox thrive best in more turbulent, well oxygenated water. The aquarium should be aquascaped with a fine substrate, larger pebble stones and driftwood. While Silver flying fox are herbivores, they will not harm or eat your live plants. You may notice Silver flying fox on your plants, but rest assured they are only cleaning algae off of them. Silver flying fox rarely conflict with tank mates, making them a very dynamic addition to a scheme of community-type aquariums. Recommended water conditions, 78-82° F, KH 5-10, pH 6.5-7.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 2” to 2-1/4”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.