Siamese Flying Fox Shark - (No Online Purchases)

Name: Siamese Flying Fox Shark / Flying Fox - In-Store Pick Up Only

Scientific Name:Epalzeorhynchos kalopteru

Description: An attractive and active freshwater fish known for its streamlined body, distinctive black horizontal stripe and golden-brown colouration. The Siamese Flying Fox features a dark stripe running from its snout towards the tail, with a contrasting golden stripe above it and darker markings on its fins. These energetic bottom-dwelling fish spend much of their time exploring rocks, plants and decorations in search of food. Although often sold as algae eaters, they become increasingly territorial as they mature and should not be confused with the more peaceful Siamese Algae Eater.

Origin: Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, where they inhabit freshwater rivers and streams.

pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5

Temperature: Around 23–27°C

Adult Size: Approximately 12–15 cm

Lifespan: Approximately 5–8 years under suitable aquarium conditions.

Food: Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, spirulina-based foods, blanched vegetables and occasional frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms. Although they graze on some algae, they should not be relied upon for complete aquarium algae control.

Compatibility: Semi-aggressive and territorial, particularly as they mature. Juveniles are generally suitable for community aquariums, but adults may become aggressive towards similar-looking bottom-dwelling fish and other Flying Foxes. Best kept individually in most community aquariums. Suitable tank mates include active, similarly sized barbs, rainbowfish, danios and other robust peaceful species. Avoid slow-moving, delicate fish and other territorial bottom dwellers.

Habitat: A well-established aquarium with rocks, driftwood, plants and plenty of hiding places. Provide open swimming areas, moderate water movement, good filtration and well-oxygenated water. Stable water conditions and regular water changes are essential.