Amur False Gudgeon (Abbottina rivularis)

Family: Cyprinidae

A peaceful omnivore cyprinidae for the lower water layers, at home across China, Japan and the Korean Peninsula — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 13.2–18.9 cm
Minimum tank: 189 L
Water layer: Bottom; rests and forages low; keep 5+
Difficulty: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Origin: 日本、朝鲜半岛

Species overview

Abbottina rivularis of the family Cyprinidae is an aquarium-kept Cyprinidae. Peaceful and omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety, it grows to 13.2–18.9 cm and prefers 18–26 °C water. Other Abbottina species in our database include Abbottina liaoningensis, Abbottina obtusirostris.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂: Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Keep 5+; larger groups settle better
Diet: Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates: China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method: Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Amur False Gudgeon easy to keep?

Beginner-friendly. Peaceful; keep 5+; larger groups settle better.

What temperature and water chemistry does Amur False Gudgeon need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Amur False Gudgeon get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 13.2–18.9 cm; it is bottom; rests and forages low; keep 5+. Plan for at least 189 litres.

What does Amur False Gudgeon eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Amur False Gudgeon live with other fish?

Peaceful; keep 5+; larger groups settle better. Good company: China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs, Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Amur False Gudgeon come from?

Its home waters are 日本、朝鲜半岛 — clear streams, rivers and still waters, with moderate flow.

How does Amur False Gudgeon breed?

In the aquarium: spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.