The true algae eaters are a single-genus family (Gyrinocheilidae, Gyrinocheilus) of small Southeast Asian fish that live in fast-flowing water, hold on to fixed objects using a sucker-like mouth, and feed primarily on algae.
The Chinese Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri) is often kept in aquaria to control algae.
It can range up to 28 cm in length, but aquarium residents tend to be under 10 cm.
Most of the “Tropical Fish” sold in your local fish store fall into these Order.
They include the families Cyprinidae, Profundulidae, Fundulidae, Cobitidae, Balitoridae, Goodeidae, Aplocheilidae, Cyprinodontidae, Poeciliidae, Anablepidae, and Gyrinocheilidae.
Most are shoaling fish and do best in groups of five or more.
