Flying Fox
Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus
Minimum Tank
40 Gallons
Adult Size
6 inches
Temperature
73-81°F (23-27°C)
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Lifespan
10 years
About Flying Fox
The flying fox is a sleek, bottom-dwelling fish from the fast-flowing streams of Borneo, Java, Sumatra, and Thailand. It closely resembles the Siamese algae eater but can be distinguished by its more colorful appearance, with a golden-orange stripe above the black lateral line and reddish-tinted fins. Flying foxes are effective algae grazers that spend much of their time rasping biofilm and soft algae from rocks, driftwood, and plant leaves. They are territorial toward their own species and similar-looking fish but generally peaceful with dissimilar tankmates. Flying foxes become more territorial and assertive as they mature, which should be considered when planning long-term community tank compositions.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 40-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
- • Category: Catfish
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Flying foxes need a tank of at least 30 gallons with moderate current and well-oxygenated water at 73-81°F. Keep only one per tank, as they are territorial toward their own kind and similar-looking species like Siamese algae eaters and rainbow sharks. They are good algae eaters when young but may rely more on commercial foods as they mature. Feed a mix of algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and sinking pellets. Provide plenty of hiding spots with driftwood and rocks. They are generally peaceful toward dissimilar species but may chase fish with similar body shapes. Maintain good water quality with regular changes. They are hardy once established and long-lived.
Quick Facts
151L
Min Tank (40gal)
15cm
Adult Size (6")
10yr
Lifespan
1+
Can Keep Solo
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Flying Fox
Related Species You Might Like
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Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
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Epalzeorhynchos frenatum
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Kryptopterus vitreolus
Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Otocinclus
Otocinclus sp.
Pictus Catfish
Pimelodus pictus
Tank Mates for Flying Fox
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Tiger Barb
Puntigrus tetrazona
easy · 20+ gal
Electric Blue Acara
Andinoacara pulcher var.
easy · 30+ gal
Severum
Heros severus
moderate · 55+ gal
Odessa Barb
Pethia padamya
easy · 20+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Flying Fox need?
A Flying Fox needs a minimum tank size of 40 gallons (151 litres).
What water parameters does a Flying Fox need?
Flying Fox thrive in water between 73-81°F (23-27°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Are Flying Fox easy to care for?
Flying Fox are considered moderate to care for. They are semi-aggressive fish with a lifespan of about 10 years.
How big do Flying Fox get and what do they eat?
Flying Fox reach about 6 inches and are omnivores. Flying foxes need a tank of at least 30 gallons with moderate current and well-oxygenated water at 73-81°F. Keep only one per tank, as they are territorial toward their own kind and similar-looking species like Siamese algae eaters and rainbow sharks. They are good algae eaters when young but may rely more on commercial foods as they mature. Feed a mix of algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and sinking pellets. Provide plenty of hiding spots with driftwood and rocks. They are generally peaceful toward dissimilar species but may chase fish with similar body shapes. Maintain good water quality with regular changes. They are hardy once established and long-lived.