Nodoa Minnow (Aphyocypris normalis)

Family: Cyprinidae

A peaceful, surface-active omnivore cyprinidae from China; keep the Nodoa Minnow in shoals of six or more — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
7.3–10.4 cm
Minimum tank
104 L
Water layer
Upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
东亚淡水水系

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Aphyocypris normalis lives upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+ over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful. Adults reach 7.3–10.4 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Aphyocypris species we profile, alongside Aphyocypris kikuchii, Aphyocypris chinensis, Aphyocypris moltrechti.

Native biotope

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

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Dark fine gravel or sand
Hardscape
Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants
Mixed planting with open swimming lanes

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Keep 6+; larger groups settle better
Diet
Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
  • China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
  • Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — 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 Nodoa Minnow easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Nodoa Minnow need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — community-standard range; verify locally. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily.

How big does Nodoa Minnow get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 7.3–10.4 cm; it is upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+. Plan for at least 104 litres.

What does Nodoa Minnow eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. It forages naturally over dark fine gravel or sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Nodoa Minnow live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful — pair it with Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs and skip Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Nodoa Minnow come from?

Comes from 东亚淡水水系: clear streams, rivers and still waters. Expect moderate flow and average oxygen needs.

How does Nodoa Minnow breed?

Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.