Gyrinocheilus aymonieri, commonly known as the honey sucker, sucking loach, or Chinese algae eater, is a freshwater fish native to various regions in Southeast Asia. It holds significance both as a local food source and in the aquarium trade.
These fish are primarily found in several key areas, including the Chao Phraya basin, northern Malay Peninsula, Mekong basin (spanning Cambodia, Yunnan province in China, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam), Mae Klong basin, and the Xe Bang Fai River. They are frequently observed in large rivers and may occasionally venture into flooded fields. Gyrinocheilus aymonieri exhibits a distinctive behavior of spending most of its time on flat surfaces, such as rocks, in flowing water. It utilizes its uniquely shaped inferior mouth to attach itself securely to rocks in areas with stronger currents.
In local markets, these fish are sold as a source of food, and smaller individuals are often used in the preparation of dishes like prahok, a traditional Southeast Asian fermented fish paste.