Pacific gudgeon (Gobio soldatovi)

Family: Cyprinidae

Pacific gudgeon — a Cyprinidae from Amur basin, calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; small groups recommended. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
11.2–16.5 cm
Minimum tank
327 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life
Origin
Amur basin

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to Amur basin: Gobio soldatovi lives active throughout the water column over gravel. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Gobio species we profile, alongside Gobio cynocephalus, Gobio huanghensis.

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
Small groups recommended
Diet
Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Constant stress

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs

Frequently asked questions

Is Pacific gudgeon easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Pacific gudgeon need?

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

How big does Pacific gudgeon get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm; it is active throughout the water column. Plan for at least 327 litres.

What does Pacific gudgeon eat?

Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Pacific gudgeon live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament and skip Fin-nippers — Constant stress.

Where does Pacific gudgeon come from?

Its home waters are Amur basin — clear streams and rivers over gravel, with moderate, well-oxygenated current.

Does Pacific gudgeon jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Pacific gudgeon breed?

Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs. Males often slimmer and more colourful.