Beth191987

what kind of algae eater would you recommed when I get my 55 set up? I want something that wont get to big and will always eat algae to keep the tank clean.

Isabella

A school of Otos are always good - they're small (1.5") and eat all algae. Their scientific name is Otocinclus Affinis. Another option is to get a Siamese Flying Fox / Siamese Algae Eater (scientific name: Crossocheilus Siamensis). If you get the Siamese Flying Fox, make sure you get the right one because aquarium shops often confuse them with other algae eaters. Siamese Flying Foxes eat black brush, green, and brown algae - basically all algae, which is very good. They grow to be about 6". You could also get a Bristlenose Pleco which is very good too - eats most algae and doesn't grow big (probably 5 - 6" at most).

Of course, when you stock your tank, leave enough space for the algae eater(s).

COBettaCouple

If you can find some, Zebra Otos would be very cool.

Bill

Yes, I think otos and bristlenose plecs are perfect for that size tank, and superb at cleaning!

plecolover

what about the rubberlip? they dont get too big either

armadillo

Am definitely VERY happy wiht my otos. I love that their bioload is so small, so you can get a few of them, as opposed to the one larger fish.

sgould

I have a BN in my 55 and he does a pretty good job keeping it clean. In my smaller tank, I recently added otos...they're good too! I don't think you would go wrong either way.

Beth191987

awesome!! I was worried I wouldn't find something small enough that would be sufficient. thank you everyone.

COBettaCouple

small children will also suffice as algae cleaners, just remember to pull them up out of the tank every now and then...

Beth191987

WOW that will be very helpful. I wont have to go spend money on fish or food for the neices and nephews.

COBettaCouple

exactly!

Cody

i would get ottos they eat agle like a pleco but with out the enomous size...you could look into geting some loaches or corys to help clean up also