Siamese trunk barb
Crossocheilus siamensis
Profile
The Siamese barb is a group fish and should ideally be kept in groups of at least 5-6 animals. Keeping them alone leads to stress.
Family
Carp fish (Cyprinidae)
Home country
Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia
Synonyms
SAE (Siamese Algae Eater), Siamese Flying Fox (colloquial, often for confusion with similar species), true Siamese trunk barb: Crossocheilus siamensis or Crossocheilus oblongus
First introduction
Common in the aquarium hobby since the 1960s/70s.
Size
Up to 14-16 cm
Sexual differences
Very difficult to recognise. Females often somewhat stronger and rounder. Males slimmer. No clear sexual dimorphism.
Diet
Omnivorous with a focus on plant food Algae (including brush algae!) Flake and granulated food Vegetables (courgette, spinach, cucumber) Frozen food such as Artemia or Cyclops Important: Do not confuse with pure carnivores - they need plant matter!
Temperature
23-28 °C
Tank size
At least 200 litres - strong swimmers!
Water values
pH: 6.0-7.5 / GH: 5-15 °dGH
Profile of the Siamese trunk barb
Area of origin
Running waters and weedy river sections in Southeast Asia. Clear, oxygen-rich water with a moderate current.
Species
There are several similar species within the genus Crossocheilus, which are often confused: The species frequently offered in the pet trade include
- Crossocheilus siamensis / oblongus (true Siamese trunk barb)
- Crossocheilus langei (often confused, but less effective against algae)
- Gyrinocheilus aymonieri (Chinese algae eater - NOT to be confused!)
The real SAE can be recognised by: a continuous black stripe up to the caudal fin Transparent fins without dark areas small barbels
Social behaviour
Peaceful, active and social. Less shy in groups. More territorial towards conspecifics when older. Ideal for community tanks with other robust fish. Eager to jump → cover required
Keeping conditions
Plenty of swimming space. Light to medium current. Lots of plants and roots. Very good oxygen supply. Cover important. Stable water conditions. Excellent for controlling algae, especially filamentous and brush algae
Breeding
Extremely rare in the aquarium. Presumably free spawners. Spawning behaviour hardly documented in captivity. Mostly bred commercially by hormone stimulation. Natural breeding in the hobby is considered almost impossible.
Special features
One of the few species that eat brush algae. Very industrious algae eaters. Frequent mix-ups in the trade → look out for characteristics. Slightly less algae-eating with age, but still beautiful behaviour. Does not tolerate high nitrate and dirt levels
Conclusion
The Siamese barb is an extremely useful, peaceful and lively aquarium inhabitant. As an excellent algae eater - especially of stubborn brush algae - it is ideal for larger community aquariums. With good care, plenty of space and group keeping, it remains active, robust and a valuable helper in the tank.
If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.
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