Cobitis macrostigma

Family: Cobitidae

Cobitis macrostigma — a Cobitidae from Japan, peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand. Reaches 10.3–15.1 cm; loose groups of 5+; loneliness makes them shy. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 10.3–15.1 cm
Minimum tank: 274 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand
Origin: Japan

Species overview

Cobitis macrostigma is a Cobitidae from Japan. In the wild it prefers sandy stretches of slow rivers; in the aquarium it stays peaceful bottom-dweller. Plan on 10.3–15.1 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Cobitis lutheri, Cobitis shikokuensis, Cobitis sinensis.

Native biotope

Habitat: Sandy stretches of slow rivers
Flow: Gentle current
Dissolved O₂: Tolerates moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Fine sand for burrowing
Hardscape: Smooth stones and driftwood caves
Plants: Low-light tolerant plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Loose groups of 5+; loneliness makes them shy
Diet: Omnivorous bottom-feeder — sinking pellets, frozen foods
Recommended tankmates: Small calm cyprinids — Occupy a different water layer
Avoid keeping with: Large predators — Loaches are on the menu

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Females noticeably plumper when mature
Breeding method: Spawns over sand and plants; eggs are abandoned

Frequently asked questions

Is Cobitis macrostigma easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Cobitis macrostigma need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature stable range; 18–26 °C typical for the genus.

How big does Cobitis macrostigma get, and what tank size?

Expect 10.3–15.1 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 274 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Cobitis macrostigma eat?

Omnivorous bottom-feeder — sinking pellets, frozen foods. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Cobitis macrostigma live with other fish?

Peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand; loose groups of 5+; loneliness makes them shy. Good company: Small calm cyprinids — Occupy a different water layer. Keep away from Large predators — Loaches are on the menu.

Where does Cobitis macrostigma come from?

Native to Japan, where it lives in sandy stretches of slow rivers. Gentle current; Tolerates moderate oxygen levels.

How does Cobitis macrostigma breed?

Spawns over sand and plants; eggs are abandoned. Females noticeably plumper when mature.