Sucking Loach

🔥 Sucking Loach (Gyrinocheilus aymonieri)
Add a powerful algae-grazing fish to your aquarium with the hardworking Sucking Loach. Gyrinocheilus aymonieri Commonly known as the Chinese Algae Eater, this energetic bottom-dwelling species is recognised for its specialised sucker mouth used to cling to surfaces and graze algae. Active, robust, and constantly on the move, Sucking Loaches are popular in larger aquariums where their algae-eating behaviour and bold personality can shine.

As juveniles, they are excellent algae grazers, spending much of their time attached to glass, rocks, and décor while exploring the aquarium.

🌿 Why Choose Sucking Loach?
🎨 Unique sucker-mouth appearance with streamlined body shape
🪨 Excellent grazer for algae and biofilm on surfaces
🐠 Active and constantly exploring the aquarium
🌿 Ideal for larger freshwater aquariums
⭐ Hardy species with strong personality

In a spacious, well-maintained aquarium, Sucking Loaches actively patrol surfaces and décor, adding movement and practical algae-cleaning behaviour.

📏 Care Requirements
🧬 Scientific Name: Gyrinocheilus aymonieri
📛 Common Name: Sucking Loach / Chinese Algae Eater
🏠 Tank Size: 180L+ recommended
📏 Adult Size: ~20–28 cm
🌡️ Temperature: 24–28°C
⚗️ pH Range: 6.0–7.5
🧘 Temperament: Semi-aggressive with age
🍽️ Diet: Algae wafers, vegetables, pellets, biofilm, frozen foods
👥 Group Size: Best kept singly

Sucking Loaches thrive in well-filtered aquariums with good water movement, driftwood, rocks, and plenty of grazing surfaces.

🐠 Compatibility
Suitable for larger community aquariums with robust species such as barbs, rainbowfish, larger tetras, and gouramis. Avoid slow-moving or flat-bodied fish, as mature individuals may become territorial.

⚠️ Important Notes
While young Sucking Loaches are effective algae grazers, adults may become territorial and less reliant on algae alone. Supplemental feeding is essential for long-term health.

A solid choice for UK aquarists wanting an active, algae-grazing fish with unique behaviour and strong character for larger aquariums.