Taiwan Horse Mouth (Candidia barbata)

Family: Cyprinidae

A semi-aggressive omnivore cyprinidae from Taiwan, China — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 10.4–14.9 cm
Minimum tank: 149 L
Water layer: Upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Origin: 中国台湾

Species overview

Candidia barbata is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays semi-aggressive. Plan on 10.4–14.9 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Candidia pingtungensis.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Strong current with heavy aeration
Dissolved O₂: Demands high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

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 Taiwan Horse Mouth easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Semi-aggressive; keep 6+; larger groups settle better.

What temperature and water chemistry does Taiwan Horse Mouth need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily; community-standard range; verify locally.

How big does Taiwan Horse Mouth get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 10.4–14.9 cm; it is upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+. Plan for at least 149 litres.

What does Taiwan Horse Mouth eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. It forages naturally over smooth gravel and sand with open floor space, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Taiwan Horse Mouth live with other fish?

Semi-aggressive; keep 6+; larger groups settle better. Good company: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Taiwan Horse Mouth come from?

Comes from 中国台湾: clear streams, rivers and still waters. Expect strong current with heavy aeration and demands high dissolved oxygen.

Does Taiwan Horse Mouth jump?

A confirmed jumper: fit a tight lid and lower the waterline slightly.

How does Taiwan Horse Mouth breed?

In the aquarium: spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.