Speolabeo musaei

Family: Cyprinidae

Speolabeo musaei — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 12.4–18.2 cm; keep at 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
12.4–18.2 cm
Minimum tank
397 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Speolabeo musaei lives active throughout the water column over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 12.4–18.2 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

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; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Speolabeo musaei easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Speolabeo musaei need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 18–26 °C typical for the family.

How big does Speolabeo musaei get, and what tank size?

Full size is 12.4–18.2 cm. Minimum tank: 397 L, with open swimming space along its active throughout the water column habits.

What does Speolabeo musaei eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Speolabeo musaei live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Speolabeo musaei come from?

It lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Speolabeo musaei jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Speolabeo musaei breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.