Black Flying Fox – Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus
The Black Flying Fox (Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus) is an active freshwater fish known for its bold black lateral stripe, gold edging, sleek body shape, and algae-grazing behavior. This eye-catching species adds movement, contrast, and personality to larger freshwater community aquariums.
Often confused with the Siamese Algae Eater, the Black Flying Fox has a slightly more territorial personality, especially as it matures. With the right tank size, hiding spaces, and compatible tankmates, it can be a hardy and rewarding addition to an active freshwater setup.
Key Features
- Bold black stripe with gold edging
- Active freshwater algae-grazing fish
- Hardy and adaptable with proper care
- Adds movement and personality to larger aquariums
- Best suited for medium to large community tanks
- Juveniles often graze more algae than adults
Care Guide
- Scientific Name: Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus
- Common Name: Black Flying Fox
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can become territorial as it matures
- Adult Size: Approximately 6 inches
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; larger recommended for adults
- Tank Level: Bottom to midwater
- Water Temperature: 72–79°F
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- Diet: Omnivore with algae-grazing behavior
Why Choose a Black Flying Fox?
Black Flying Fox fish are a good choice for aquarists who want an active, hardy fish with strong markings and a bold personality. Their dark stripe and gold accents create a sharp contrast in planted aquariums, rock layouts, and larger community tanks.
They may graze on algae, biofilm, and surface growth, especially when young, but they should not be relied on as the only method of algae control. As they mature, they need a balanced diet with algae wafers, sinking foods, vegetables, and occasional frozen foods.
Black Flying Fox vs. Siamese Algae Eater
Black Flying Fox fish are often mistaken for Siamese Algae Eaters, but they are different fish with different behavior. Flying Foxes tend to be more territorial, especially as adults, and may chase similar-shaped fish if the aquarium is crowded or lacks enough hiding places.
If you are choosing a fish mainly for black beard algae control, a true Siamese Algae Eater is usually the better-known choice. If you want a bold, active fish with personality for a larger community aquarium, the Black Flying Fox can be a great option with proper planning.
Ideal Tank Setup
Black Flying Fox fish do best in a stable aquarium with open swimming space, driftwood, rocks, plants, caves, and hiding areas. Decor helps create territory boundaries and reduces stress or chasing behavior.
A 30 gallon aquarium is the minimum starting point, but larger aquariums are better for adult fish. Good filtration, clean water, and regular maintenance help keep them active and healthy long term.
Compatible Tankmates
- Larger peaceful tetras
- Barbs
- Rainbowfish
- Danios
- Gouramis with caution
- Loaches in larger aquariums with enough space
- Active community fish of similar size
- Snails
Tankmates to Avoid
- Other Flying Foxes in small aquariums
- Siamese Algae Eaters or similar-shaped algae eaters if space is limited
- Chinese Algae Eaters in most community tanks
- Small timid nano fish
- Slow or delicate bottom dwellers
- Large aggressive predators
- Very crowded community tanks
Diet & Feeding
Black Flying Fox fish are omnivores and natural grazers. They may feed on algae, biofilm, and leftover foods, but they also need regular supplemental feeding.
Offer algae wafers, sinking pellets, vegetable-based foods, blanched zucchini, spinach, cucumber, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and other appropriately sized foods. A varied diet helps support healthy growth, color, and long-term condition.
Care Tips
- Provide driftwood, rocks, caves, and hiding places
- Offer open swimming space
- Avoid keeping with similar-shaped fish in small tanks
- Supplement algae grazing with wafers and sinking foods
- Choose active, appropriately sized tankmates
- Maintain clean, stable water with reliable filtration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Black Flying Fox the same as a Siamese Algae Eater?
No. They are often confused, but they are different fish. Black Flying Fox fish are usually more territorial and have different stripe and fin markings.
Are Black Flying Fox fish good algae eaters?
Yes, especially when young. They may graze on algae and biofilm, but adults should be fed a varied diet and should not be relied on as the only algae-control method.
Can more than one Black Flying Fox be kept together?
Only with caution in very large aquariums with plenty of space, hiding spots, and territory breaks. In smaller tanks, they are usually best kept singly.
Are Black Flying Fox fish shrimp-safe?
Adult shrimp may be safe in planted aquariums with cover, but smaller shrimp or baby shrimp could be at risk.
Do Black Flying Fox fish get aggressive?
They can become territorial as they mature, especially in smaller aquariums or when housed with similar-shaped fish.
How big do Black Flying Fox fish get?
They can reach approximately 6 inches as adults.
What size tank does a Black Flying Fox need?
A 30 gallon aquarium is the minimum starting point, but larger aquariums are recommended for adults because they are active and territorial.
What do Black Flying Fox fish eat?
They eat algae, biofilm, algae wafers, sinking pellets, vegetable-based foods, blanched vegetables, and occasional frozen foods.
Are these fish available for shipping?
No. Live fish are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Black Flying Fox fish are active freshwater algae-grazing fish for larger community aquariums, planted tanks, and aquascapes with suitable tankmates. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop algae eaters, freshwater fish, oddball fish, live aquarium plants, fish food, filtration supplies, and aquarium care products. Live livestock is available for in-store purchase or local pickup only.
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