Flying Fox Algae Eater (Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus)

The Flying Fox Algae Eater, Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus, is a popular freshwater fish among aquarists due to its algae-eating abilities and striking appearance. It is often mistaken for the Siamese Algae Eater, but the Flying Fox has distinct physical and behavioral traits that set it apart.

Natural Habitat

The Flying Fox is native to Southeast Asia, including countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. In the wild, they inhabit fast-flowing rivers and streams with plenty of rocks, driftwood, and vegetation. These environments provide a steady source of algae and biofilm, which forms the basis of their diet. The strong currents also keep the waters well-oxygenated, a condition they are adapted to thrive in.

Appearance

The Flying Fox has a sleek, elongated body with a unique color pattern. Its body is silver or golden with a bold black horizontal stripe running from the nose to the tail. Above this stripe, a golden or brown line is often present. The fins are generally transparent, with some specimens displaying slight orange or red hues on their fins. These fish can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length, making them moderately sized for community aquariums.

Aquarium Care

Flying Fox Algae Eaters are relatively hardy fish, but they have specific requirements that should be met to ensure their well-being:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons (113 liters) is recommended due to their active nature and potential size. Larger tanks with ample swimming space will allow them to display their natural behaviors.
• Water Parameters: These fish prefer water temperatures between 72°F and 79°F (22°C - 26°C), with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. As they originate from fast-flowing waters, good water circulation and filtration are essential to keep oxygen levels high. Regular water changes are important to maintain excellent water quality.
• Tank Setup: Flying Foxes are bottom to mid-level swimmers, so providing a well-structured tank with plenty of hiding places is key. Use rocks, driftwood, and live plants to replicate their natural habitat. Ensure that the tank is covered, as they can be excellent jumpers.
• Diet: As their name suggests, Flying Fox Algae Eaters are known for consuming algae. However, they are omnivores and should not rely solely on algae for sustenance. Supplement their diet with high-quality sinking pellets, blanched vegetables (such as zucchini or spinach), and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. A balanced diet ensures that they remain healthy and active.
• Behavior and Tank Mates: While generally peaceful, Flying Fox Algae Eaters can become territorial, especially as they mature. They may display aggressive behavior towards their own kind or similarly shaped fish, so it is often best to keep just one individual unless you have a very large tank. Suitable tank mates include fast-swimming species like tetras, barbs, and danios, as well as other peaceful bottom dwellers like Corydoras and loaches.

Breeding

Breeding the Flying Fox in captivity is quite rare and challenging. They are not known to breed easily in home aquariums, and most specimens available in the trade are wild-caught. In nature, they spawn in fast-flowing rivers, but replicating these conditions in a home aquarium has proven difficult.

Algae Control

One of the main reasons aquarists keep Flying Foxes is for their algae-eating abilities. They are efficient at controlling various types of algae, particularly hair algae and black beard algae. However, as they mature, they may lose interest in algae and prefer other foods, so their algae-eating role may diminish over time.

Common Issues

While Flying Foxes are hardy, they are prone to stress in poorly maintained aquariums or when housed with overly aggressive tank mates. Stress can lead to health issues like Ich (white spot disease) or bacterial infections. Maintaining proper water quality and tank conditions will help reduce these risks.

Conclusion

The Flying Fox Algae Eater is a fascinating and active fish that can help keep your aquarium free of algae while adding a striking appearance to the tank. Though they can be somewhat territorial as they grow, with the right tank setup and tank mates, they will thrive and contribute to a balanced aquarium ecosystem.

Their unique look and algae-eating behavior make them an excellent choice for aquarists looking to add both function and beauty to their tanks.