Family: Cyprinidae
Balantiocheilos melanopterus — a Cyprinidae from Southeast Asia. Reaches 26.2–38.5 cm; keep at 22–28 °C.
Balantiocheilos melanopterus is a Cyprinidae from Southeast Asia. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 26.2–38.5 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.
Hold 22–28 °C and keep it stable — 22–28 °C curated husbandry range. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.
Expect 26.2–38.5 cm as an adult, living middle of the water column. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Native to Southeast Asia, where it lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.
Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.
Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.