Algae eater that won't eat live plants?

Question

I need some algae eaters that will not overgrow my small 10 gallon tank...I know plecos will outgrow it plus destroy my plants.

The plants I have are Java Ferns...i don't know if that makes a difference

Answer 1

I've never had a problem with my pleco hanging around the java ferns.  I don't think he's even inclined to eat some of the leaves that are rotting.  He will carefully remove any algae growing on the leaves though, cuz...well, he's an ALGAE eater...

Also, plecos cannot 'overgrow' a tank.  They can only grow relative to the size of the tank (unless you're putting steroids in his algae wafers!)

Answer 2

Otocinclus Catfish also known as a dwarf algae eater.

I have own 2 of them and their really good at cleaning up algae and not destroying my live plants. They only grow to be no more than 2.5 inches and are very attractive fish. The algae in your tank will not be enough food to maintain any algae eater, some have been known to eat algae wafers however mine dont; they eat sinking shrimp pellets and cucumber and zuchini. They usually like to live in groups of 5+ but since you

only have a 10 gallon i would go with 2-3.

These little catfish are going to be the only small agae eaters youll probably be able to find for your 10 gallon tank.

You could also look at some snails, they also clean up algae but they tend to eat plants right up.

Oh and yes a pleco will be too big for your tank, tho its true that he might not overgrow your tank, he will suffer from stunted growth which will shorten his life span and quality of life.

Answer 3

they are called ALGAE EATERS. they dont eat plants, just ALGAE.

Answer 4

by a algae remover for ur tank it loses the algae

and ur flirter gets it off  

Answer 5

umm ya try snails they will eat your algae and they wont eat your plants :) ask you local fish store if they have some [try to get like at least 10 snails and your good plus they reproduce fast so no worries if u need more]