The Siamese Algae Eater comes from fast flowing water in Thailand and Malaysia.  It is also known as the Siamese Flying Fox.  It is commonly confused with the Flying Fox, the Otto and the Chinese Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri).   The SAE has a distinctive black horizontal stripe running from its head through its later line and into its tail fin. This band is jagged along its edges.  Below the horizontal band it is white and above the band it is a gray/brown with each scale in this area having a dark outline.  The fins are transparent or can have hints of red.  Another distinctive feature are two small barbels on its nose.  There are no apparent sexual  differences. 

SAEs should be provided lots of swimming space as they are very active.  A strong flow to the water will help to produce a more native habitat for them  They will eat algae, including red algae, however their interest in eating algae declines as they grow older.  They will survive well on flake foods.  SAEs are not easily bred in captivity and most are imported from Asia.

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