Chinese Algae Eater And Guppy?

[dipsydoodlenoodle]

Are chinese algae eaters (well a single one) compatible with guppies and red cherry shrimp; and also what size tank would they require?

 

[Wills]

They get to about 6-8 inches and get pretty nasty when they get older, not a general community fish IMO and if the tank is for guppies and cherries im guessing its not that big so perhaps consider a small group of ottos?

 

[walkers101]

they are till they get bigger and eat all your small fish

my advise is to steer clear

 

[dipsydoodlenoodle]

they are till they get bigger and eat all your small fish

my advise is to steer clear

I know

I luckily was mis-informed by my LFS and I bought two a while ago. I just wanted to separate them but if it's going to harm my guppies and shrimp then NO!

I'm more bothered about my shrimp than the guppies ironically; but I still dont want anyone eaten.

 

[waterdrop]

Yes, agree with the comments about CAEs ---WD

 

[luckyd]

I also got bad advice from the LFS and ended up with one golden algae eaters in each of my 3 tanks. But the LFS worker told us today that she owns them and they will always primarily remain an algae eater and only go after other fish if not well fed. Does anyone who's had experience with the CAE agree with that?

 

[dipsydoodlenoodle]

I don't know; mine haven't gone after the fish - the only time they have is when the fish entered the algae eaters cave. I read lots online about them being ok when they are small; it's when they are adults that you need to worry (apparently).

 

[LilyRose Tank]

I too was misinformed. pets at home are still selling these as peacefull algae eaters, i told them they get aggressive and they didnt believe me. anyway, its a shame really, as its such a beautiful fish, i really miss mine, Peaches, was my favourite fish, I wish i could go back and get loads of them

 

[boeingtech]

i have a cae which is about 7 inches long and have never had any problems with it. He/she love's her cave and will chase off any one who want's to enter except the clown loaches ,but has never hurt another fish , but i don't think i would trust it with anything small enough to fit in it's mouth.