Family: Cyprinidae
The smallest of the Korean bitterlings — a peaceful omnivore cyprinidae that colours up best in groups of six or more — moderate care.
Acheilognathus gracilis is a Cyprinidae from Korean Peninsula. In the wild it prefers clear streams, rivers and still waters; in the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 4.1–5.8 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Acheilognathus barbatulus, Acheilognathus cyanostigma, Acheilognathus macropterus.
Intermediate difficulty. Peaceful; keep 6+; larger groups settle better.
Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.
Expect 4.1–5.8 cm as an adult, living mid-water swimmer; keep 6+. A 58 L tank or larger gives it room.
Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. It forages naturally over smooth gravel and sand with open floor space, so let some food reach the bottom.
Peaceful; keep 6+; larger groups settle better. Good company: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.
Native to Korean Peninsula, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Moderate flow; Average oxygen needs.
In the aquarium: spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.