Flying fox - Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus

Scientific name: Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus

Common name: Flying fox

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 14 - 17 cm (5.51 - 6.69 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

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Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: East Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

Flying Fox is primarily an algae eater. To ensure a balanced diet, provide:

Algae wafers and spirulina flakes
Fresh vegetables such as cucumber, zucchini, and lettuce
Occasional treats like tubifex and white worms

These fish are known for keeping tanks clean by consuming excess algae, but supplementary feeding is necessary to maintain health.

Origin

Flying Fox originates from South East Asia, specifically found in Borneo, Java, Thailand, and Sumatra. They inhabit fast-moving streams with rocky and sandy substrates.

Sexing

There are no visible differences between male and female Flying Fox fish, making sexing difficult.

Breeding

Currently, there are no documented cases of Flying Fox breeding successfully in home aquariums. In the wild, they are believed to reproduce in large river systems under specific seasonal conditions.

Lifespan

With proper care, Flying Fox fish can live up to 8 years.

Tankmates

Flying Fox can be kept in a community aquarium, but some care is needed. They can become territorial, especially as they mature. Suitable tankmates include:

Peaceful schooling fish like Tetras, Rasboras, and non-aggressive Barbs
Bottom dwellers like Corydoras and Loaches
Non-aggressive Gouramis

Avoid keeping them with aggressive or overly territorial species, as conflicts may arise.

Tank Setup & Conditions

To mimic their natural habitat, provide:

A tank of at least 75 liters (~20 gallons) for a single specimen
Fast-moving water with good filtration
A sandy or fine gravel substrate with smooth rocks
Driftwood and caves for hiding spots
Floating plants to provide shaded areas

Suitable Aquarium Plants

Flying Fox fish enjoy planted tanks but may nibble on delicate plants. Hardy plants are recommended, including:

Short Description

Often mistaken for the Siamese Algae Eater, the Flying Fox (Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus) is a semi-aggressive algae grazer. While peaceful when young, they may become territorial with age. Keeping them in a well-structured environment with hiding spots and a varied diet will ensure they thrive.