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The Flying Fox: Nature’s Algae Assassin with a Flash of Gold

The Flying Fox (Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus) is a sleek, torpedo-shaped freshwater fish native to fast-flowing rivers and streams across Southeast Asia. With its shimmering bronze body, bold black lateral stripe, and golden-edged fins, it’s a visual standout in any tropical aquarium. Often mistaken for its close cousin, the Siamese Algae Eater, the Flying Fox brings both beauty and utility to planted tanks — especially for aquarists battling stubborn algae.

Beyond aesthetics, Flying Foxes are prized for their algae-eating prowess. While they don’t devour every type of algae, they’re particularly effective against green algae and detritus build-up. These fish are active swimmers and thrive in well-oxygenated environments with plenty of hiding spots and open space. They’re best kept solo or in larger tanks with similarly sized tankmates, as they can become territorial with age — a trait that makes them better suited for intermediate keepers who understand their social dynamics.

Features

Approx. purchase size: 2" / 5cm
Maximum size: 6" / 14cm
Origin: India, Southeast Asia
Family: Cyprinidae
Type: Bottom dweller
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Lighting requirement: low
Ideal number kept together: 1+ (can be aggressive in groups)

Water Conditions

Ideal pH: 6.0–8.0
Hardness: 2-12d H
Water flow: fast preferred
Temperature: 23–27 °C

Ease of Care

Flying Foxes are easy to moderate to care for. They can grow quite large but at a fairly slow rate. Flying Foxes will prefer fast flowing water, and a softer, sandy substrate.

Feeding

Feed Flying Foxes a mixture of algae wafer and greens, like courgette and spinach leaves. As they grow, they will eat dried flake and granules. Ensure the aquarium has a steady source of algae.

Breeding

This species does not breed readily in home aquaria. Difficult to sex, females tend to be plumper.

Life Span

Flying Foxes can live up to 10 years in perfect conditions.

Suitable tankmates for Flying Fox fish

Peaceful Schooling Fish

These species are active but non-aggressive, making them ideal companions:

Rummy Nose Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Cherry Barbs, Zebra Danios, Ember Tetras.

Bottom Dwellers

These species occupy different zones and help avoid territorial overlap:

Corydoras Catfish, Kuhli Loaches, Bristlenose Plecos, Yoyo Loaches.

Mid-Level Community Fish

These fish are peaceful and visually complementary:

Pearl Gouramis, Honey Gouramis, Rainbowfish (e.g., Boesemani), Platies, Swordtails.

Avoid These

Flying Foxes can become territorial with age, so avoid:

Other Flying Foxes or similar-looking species (e.g., Siamese Algae Eaters, Redtail Sharks), Aggressive or large cichlids, Fin-nippers like Tiger Barbs (unless in large, well-managed groups).

Ethically sourced Flying Foxes offer a sustainable alternative to chemical algae treatments, aligning with Real Aquatics’ commitment to responsible petkeeping. For aquascapers and eco-conscious hobbyists, they’re a living solution that supports tank health while adding movement and contrast. Just be sure to provide a varied diet and stable water parameters to keep them thriving — and watch them glide like golden arrows through your aquatic landscape.

To browse our range of water treatments for algae please click here.

to browse our range of food for bottom feeders please click here.

Photo credit(s): Canva Pro Licence

Related search terms: Flying Fox Fish, Tropical Fish Food, Aquarium Substrate.