Naked Osman (Gymnodiptychus dybowskii)

Family: Cyprinidae

Naked Osman — a Cyprinidae from Tibetan Plateau waters, peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. 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
Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates
Origin
Tibetan Plateau waters

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to Tibetan Plateau waters: Gymnodiptychus dybowskii lives active throughout the water column over gravel. Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Robust schooling cyprinids.

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
Keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Robust schooling cyprinids — Add activity without conflict
Avoid keeping with
  • Much larger predators — Risk at night

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Breeding is straightforward scatter-spawning

Frequently asked questions

Is Naked Osman easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Naked Osman need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — 18–26 °C typical for the family. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Naked Osman get, and what tank size?

Full size is 11.2–16.5 cm. Minimum tank: 327 L, with open swimming space along its active throughout the water column habits.

What does Naked Osman eat?

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

Can Naked Osman live with other fish?

Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Recommended tankmates: Robust schooling cyprinids — Add activity without conflict. Avoid Much larger predators — Risk at night.

Where does Naked Osman come from?

Comes from Tibetan Plateau waters: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Naked Osman jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Naked Osman breed?

Breeding is straightforward scatter-spawning. Males often slimmer and more colourful.