Acheilognathus polylepis — a Cyprinidae from China & East Asia, mostly peaceful; keep with calm tankmates. Reaches 6.5–9.6 cm; loose shoals; groups of 6+ settle quickly. 15–25 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
15–25 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
6.5–9.6 cm
Minimum tank
111 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; keep with calm tankmates
Origin
China & East Asia
Species overview
Cyprinidae species Acheilognathus polylepis comes from China & East Asia. Like its relatives it depends on living freshwater mussels for breeding, so a fine-sand bed and settled water matter more than décor. It uses the whole water column. Adults reach 6.5–9.6 cm. Loose shoals; groups of 6+ settle quickly. Offer small foods in calm corners and keep the water stable — this fish forgives little else in the way of sloppiness. Maintain 15–25 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Best suited to a keeper who can match its natural water.
Native biotope
Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Loose shoals; groups of 6+ settle quickly
Diet
Small omnivore; flakes, granules and vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
Other small peaceful cyprinids — Similar size, similar water