These are NOT algae eaters. Rather, in the wild, they sift sand and are much more inclined to feed on meaty foods. Mine would rarely venture close to a stick of zuchinni, but loved pea mix. Also, they love to bury themselves--therefore, sand is an obligation, not an option. They can reach 10"-12", reportedly, but, as with all psuedohemiodon, after they hit maturity, growth slows considerably.