Siamese Algae Eater

[thecommonnate]

I recently bought a CAE with no prior algae eater experience other than "plecos get big." I did my research, and I'm planning on returning the little guy because of the aggression.
I now want to find a SAE, but I have questions.

1. Are they better off kept in large groups, alone, in pairs etc..?
2. Do they get large? I have a 25 gallon planted tank with a school of 6 barbs (and, as of now, a CAE, but he will soon be gone).
3. Where could I find them in California?

Thanks in advance.

 

[mancin]

Here's some info on the SAE.

Also, here's a really helpful post with 30 Plecos under 8 inches

If your local LFS doesn't have SAE (or Plecos if you so decide) in stock, you can try liveaquaria.com. It's the Drs Foster & Smith site, but for live fish, plants, etc. I've never ordered fish from there (however I am in the very near future), but I have gotten plants and they were good quality. They have a 2 week "Live Guarantee" for their freshwater fish.

 

[three-fingers]

1.Best in groups of at least three.
2.Mine are at least 5" long and quite chunky too. They are very active fish, a 25gal is too small IMO.

Dunno about 3.

Instead, why not look to keep a single flying fox?