Hey everyone! I figured I'd stop by and check if you guys could help me. I'm looking for pictures of six inch or larger CAEs. I know it is somewhat rare that they reach ten inches or larger, but some pictures would be great. I know someone who refuses to believe that they can reach six inches or larger without a picture. Does anyone have a picture I could show her, or someone else who does?

Thanks in advance!


[]Erica[]

I've never had a CAE myself. I tried an image search for them but didn't find any aside from some baby photos. I couldn't find photos but there are plenty of sites out there that state they can grow to 6 to 8". My site states a max of 11" which I probably got from the Baesch aquarium atlas.

Ah. Well thanks anyway. I figured I'd ask because I saw the article on the site. Besides, your articles are always so helpful.

I think the problem is that CAEs are slow growers and they usually become agressive by time they hit about three inches or so. That's when people decide to return them. That or when they actually start to try and suck the slime coat off the fish. That might be why you don't see any pictures of large CAEs, no one wants to keep them until they get that large because of their notorious agression. I don't think I'd want a big, agressive, algae eater either. lol. Plus not many people carry a camera around with them where ever they go...unless they're like my and suck with photography.

I guess I'll just have to tell her that she can grow her CAE out in the large tank she buys it after it becomes too agressive, unless she returns it.