Gold Algae Eater

The Gold Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri) is a popular and efficient algae-eating fish known for its golden-yellow coloration and tireless work ethic. While young, they are peaceful and excellent at controlling algae growth, but they can become territorial as they mature. With their sucker-like mouth and constant grazing behavior, Gold Algae Eaters are valuable additions to larger community tanks where they can help maintain clean surfaces and decorations.

Care Sheet – Gold Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)

Temperament

• Generally peaceful when young

• Can become semi-aggressive and territorial with age

Adult Size

• 6–10 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 30 gallons for a single adult

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–79°F

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Primarily herbivorous

• Feed a varied diet:

  • Algae wafers and spirulina tablets

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber)

  • Supplement with high-quality sinking pellets

• Feed once daily, preferably in evening

Behavior & Compatibility

• Best with medium to large peaceful fish

• Compatible with:

  • Barbs, rainbowfish, larger tetras

  • Peaceful cichlids

  • Other bottom dwellers with adequate space

• Avoid with very small fish or slow-moving species

Aquarium Setup

• Provide plenty of hiding spots and territories

• Smooth rocks and driftwood for grazing

• Moderate to strong water flow

• Efficient filtration for clean water

Care Level

• Easy to moderate

• Good for intermediate aquarists

Lifespan

• 8–12 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Excellent algae eater when young

• May become less effective at algae control as they age

• Provide multiple hiding places to reduce aggression

• Not a true sucker-mouth catfish (not related to plecos)