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This slender algae eater has a silver underbelly with a bright yellow/gold back. A horizontal line that is patterned runs along the side. The Gold Algae Eater comes from Northern India. It is usually kept in tanks for the purpose of keeping algae under control.

A minimum of a 40 gallon tank is recommended with plenty of plants, rocks, and driftwood for hiding. It can handle different water conditions, but water quality should remain constant to avoid stress. In smaller community tanks the Gold Algae Eater will defend its territory. Caution should be used when maintaining this species with discus and larger angelfish, as the catfish will often harass these species.

Breeding has not been seen or been successful in an aquarium setting. There is little known about sexing the male and female except that the male tends to have more pronounced "thorns" around the mouth.

The main source of food is algae on plants, rocks, glass, and driftwood. Algae based wafers should be provided if there is a lack of algae.

Ideal tank mates include: South American Cichlids of similar size, Rainbowfish, Larger Barbs, Danios, Gouramis, Mollies, Swordtails, Plecos and Scavenger Catfish.