Alternatives Algae Eater

[m1lky12]

Hey guys, just purchased a new aquarium and was thinking about getting a bristlenose catfish as I've wanted one for a while, however I've been advised against it as ideally a fully grown one needs atleast 125l and they're pretty messy, though I was prepared for the extra cleaning. Basically I'm just looking at a possible alternative. Would like it to give me a hand in looking after the algae build up, prefer life as a singleton, look a bit unique compared to your average plec, available for a decent price i.e not much more than £10.

The tanks a UFO 550 corner tank, 100l, bogwood and sand and plenty of hiding spots, only other bottom dwelling inhabitants will be a couple of syodontis catfish and around 5 zebra loaches.

 

[mike455555]

fish should not be bought just to combat algae. although i love a group of oto's and shrimp i find they mix well and dont damage plants they are small though

 

[thereverendturtle]

Bulldog plecos, stay small and are interesting looking little guys.

 

[N0body Of The Goat]

Bulldog plecos, stay small and are interesting looking little guys.

Yep, Parotocinclus jumbo (sometimes contaminated with others from the genus) would be a good alternative in a group, alternatively a Florida Flagfish (Jordanella floridae) can work as a singleton or trio.

 

[m1lky12]

I've always liked to have an algae eater in my tank, don't know why but always have, kept ottos before as a pair but they weren't a success, like you said they need a fairly big group of them and never really been into having shrimps, though they'd be an interesting addition!

Bulldog plecs and the flagfish look interesting though! Will read up on them in the next few days and look out for them at my LFS.

Cheers for the quick replies!

 

[LeopardPerch]

I like saimese algea eaters and cherry shrimps personally because they don't damage plants
Cheers

 

[MBOU]

Unfortunately Siamese Algae Eaters (assuming you dont mean flying fox?) get way too big for 100L and are nothing short of psychotic as adults.

I think if you are looking for the Parotocinclus jumbo, they are up as Pitbull Plecs Bulldog plecs are something different... Chaetostoma sp

You'll struggle to find too much having ruled out Otos etc because none of the fancy L numbers are cheap/eat algae/small enough. Bristlenose.... well... if you could find yourself a female and the tanks not overstocked, i dont think it would be too bad... just make sure its female, they just dont get as big.