Chinese Bleak (Aphyocypris chinensis)

Family: Cyprinidae

Chinese Bleak — a Cyprinidae from China, peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few. Reaches 4.5–6.6 cm; shoaling; 8–10+ for constant motion and confidence. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
4.5–6.6 cm
Minimum tank
52 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few
Origin
China

Species overview

Aphyocypris chinensis is a Cyprinidae from China. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays peaceful and energetic. Plan on 4.5–6.6 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Aphyocypris kikuchii, Aphyocypris normalis, Aphyocypris moltrechti.

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
Shoaling; 8–10+ for constant motion and confidence
Diet
Omnivore; accepts everything small enough
Recommended tankmates
  • Corydoras and small loaches — Occupy the bottom without fuss
Avoid keeping with
  • Large predators — Out-swim fate only so long

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Spawns at dawn over fine plants; eggs fall to the bottom

Frequently asked questions

Is Chinese Bleak easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Chinese Bleak 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 Chinese Bleak get, and what tank size?

Expect 4.5–6.6 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 52 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Chinese Bleak eat?

Omnivore; accepts everything small enough. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Chinese Bleak live with other fish?

Peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few; shoaling; 8–10+ for constant motion and confidence. Good company: Corydoras and small loaches — Occupy the bottom without fuss. Keep away from Large predators — Out-swim fate only so long.

Where does Chinese Bleak come from?

Native to China, where it lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Chinese Bleak jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Chinese Bleak breed?

In the aquarium: spawns at dawn over fine plants; eggs fall to the bottom. Males often slimmer and more colourful.