Chinese Algae Eater tank mates
Gyrinocheilus aymonieri
6 rated pairings from the Chinese Algae Eater care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Chinese Algae Eater needs at least 55 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Good matches
3 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.Denison Barb
Sahyadria denisonii
55 gal min · 6" adult · Peaceful
Fast-moving and robust enough to avoid harassment from most Algae Eaters
Silver Dollar
Metynnis argenteus
55 gal min · 6" adult · Peaceful
Large, active fish that can hold their own against semi-aggressive behavior
Clown Loach
Chromobotia macracanthus
75 gal min · 12" adult · Peaceful
Larger and more assertive, less likely to be bullied by Algae Eaters
Use caution
3 · Works in the right setup; read the note before combining.
Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus sp.
20 gal min · 5" adult · Peaceful
Both are bottom-dwellers and may compete for food and territory as the Algae Eater matures
Sunburst Platy
Xiphophorus maculatus
10 gal min · 2.5" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful but may be harassed by aggressive adult Algae Eaters
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Similar ecological niche; adult Algae Eaters may become aggressive toward them
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.